The landscape of hidradenitis suppurativa (HS) treatment and research has seen significant advancements in 2024, with new therapeutic options and a deeper understanding of the disease's complexities. Several key developments, ranging from clinical trials to real-world insights, are shaping the future of HS management.
Bimekizumab's Regulatory Milestones
Bimekizumab, an IL-17A and IL-17F inhibitor, has achieved notable regulatory success. The European Union approved bimekizumab for moderate to severe HS, marking it as the first IL-17A and IL-17F inhibitor approved in Europe for this condition. This approval was based on data from the Phase III BE HEARD I and BE HEARD II trials, which demonstrated significant improvements in skin pain over a 48-week period. The FDA also accepted supplemental Biologics License Applications for bimekizumab to treat HS, stemming from the same promising Phase 3 trial results. Investigator Christopher Sayed, MD, highlighted the efficacy of bimekizumab, noting meaningful improvements over placebo in HS patients, with continued efficacy observed at 48 and 96 weeks.
Lutikizumab's Promising Trial Results
Lutikizumab has shown positive results in a Phase 2 trial for HS, with higher response rates observed in patients treated with the drug. This has led to its advancement to Phase 3 clinical trials. Notably, late-breaking data revealed that lutikizumab also demonstrated positive results in difficult-to-treat HS patients who had failed TNF therapy, suggesting its potential as an alternative treatment option in these cases.
Investigational Therapies and Approaches
Beyond bimekizumab and lutikizumab, other therapies and approaches are being investigated for HS. A Phase 2a study demonstrated dose-dependent tolerability of oral orismilast in HS, with investigators noting potential for meaningful clinical improvements. Researchers are also exploring the role of intravenous ertapenem therapy in HS management, suggesting that IV antibiotics should play a complementary role as new immunomodulator therapies are developed. Additionally, research from the University of Michigan and Almirall indicates that the profibrotic fibroblast response in HS can be modulated through inhibition of the Hippo pathway.
Other Key Findings
Several other areas of HS research have also come to light. A market study reported that secukinumab has emerged as a leading treatment for HS post-approval. There is ongoing investigation into the relationship between maternal HS and increased risk of childhood morbidity. Furthermore, a review found that more research is needed regarding dietary considerations for patients with HS, as findings regarding associations between HS severity and dietary elements like vitamin D and B12 supplementation remain inconclusive. The use of AI chatbots to provide support to patients with HS is also being explored, with a novel study assessing the potential of AI platforms in providing accurate information.
These advancements signify a growing understanding and evolving treatment landscape for hidradenitis suppurativa, offering hope for improved outcomes and quality of life for patients affected by this challenging condition.
