Effects of TNF-alpha Antagonism in Patients with the
Metabolic Syndrome and Psoriasis
Description –
The Dermatology Clinical Unit for Research Trials in Skin of
Massachusetts General Hospital and Brigham & Women’s
Hospital is recruiting subjects 18 years of age and older
who are overweight or obese and have chronic plaque-type
psoriasis. The purpose of this research study is to find out
how substances produced in the fat (inflammatory markers)
relate to the risk of heart disease in people with
psoriasis.
In order to qualify for this study, you will have to be
tested for metabolic syndrome. People with metabolic
syndrome have insulin resistance (or “pre-diabetes”),
increased waist size, high blood pressure or high
cholesterol.
Metabolic syndrome can lead to heart and blood vessel
disease by causing inflammation in blood vessels. The goal
of the study is to determine if Enbrel (an injectable
medication approved for psoriasis) can help to reduce the
inflammation associated with the metabolic syndrome and
decrease the risk of cardiovascular (heart and blood vessel)
disease.
In this study subjects will be randomly assigned to receive
either Enbrel or placebo (which contains no active
medication).
The study may last up to 28 weeks and requires 10 study
visits. Total compensation for participation is $750.
Eligibility Criteria –
Subjects
18 years of age and older with chronic plaque-type psoriasis
and metabolic syndrome. If you participate in this research
study, you will have to stop all other treatments for your
psoriasis. Females cannot be pregnant or breast-feeding.
Other restrictions will be explained at the screening visit.
Institution - Massachusetts General Hospital and
Brigham & Women's Hospital
Principal Investigator -
Alexandra B. Kimball MD, MPH
Enrollment Information -
For further information please contact Lynne Hermosilla at
(617) 726-5066 or email
harvardskinstudies@partners.org.
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