Psoriatic Disease Patient Information
We would like to share recent guidance released from several reputable sources, including the National Psoriasis Foundation, addressing vaccine use in psoriatic disease patients for the prevention of COVID-19.
“The new mRNA vaccines are an astonishingly 95% effective in preventing COVID19 and are extremely safe. We recommend that patients with psoriatic disease get the vaccine as soon as it is available to them. Patients may continue their oral or biologic psoriasis or psoriatic arthritis treatment without interruption when receiving these immunizations,” said Joel Gelfand, M.D., MSCE, Professor of Dermatology and Epidemiology at the University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine and Co-Chair of the National Psoriasis Foundation (NPF) COVID-19 Task Force.1
NPF launched its COVID-19 Task Force in May 2020, charged to identify critical needs for the psoriatic disease community and to serve as an expert resource to the organization in an advisory capacity. The Task Force is comprised of physicians with expertise in dermatology, rheumatology, infectious disease, and critical care, in addition to fellows and NPF staff.1
(1National Psoriasis Foundation, December 14, 2020, “NPF COVID-19 Task Force Issues New Guidance Statements Regarding COVID-19 Vaccines Along with Updates to Prior Guidance”, www.psoriasis.org.)
Our practice, as well as our own psoriasis expert, Dr. James Krell, continues to closely monitor the evolving situation. With expert guidance from organizations like the NPF and its COVID-19 Task Force, Total Skin and Beauty Dermatology is committed to providing evidence-based recommendations for our patients.
We do encourage the psoriatic disease community to visit its COVID-19 Resource Center and see this article published on Healio’s website for additional information. Also always adhere to public health guidelines, and consult with your health care provider if infected with with virus.
“I am answering the question right now for the many people affected by psoriatic disease—‘Should I get the vaccination if I am currently on any biologic medications?’ The answer is absolutely, yes. With the data and studies gathered from physicians all over the country who specialize in the treatment of this disease, I highly recommend that you get vaccinated as soon as you possibly can.”
–DR. JAMES KRELL
Total Skin & Beauty Dermatology Physician
Check out this video from Dr. James Krell
Cosmetic Facial Filler Patient Information
In Moderna’s Phase 3 trial that included 30,000 participants, there were 3 patients with a history of facial filler that developed facial swelling. This included 2 patients with cheek filler and 1 with lip filler. The reactions were mild and either resolved spontaneously or were treated with short courses of steroids and antihistamines.
No such cases were reported with the Pfizer vaccine.
For additional information and FAQs on the reaction related to facial fillers, please read this article posted on Healio’s website.
“We believe that the risk of the COVID-19 virus far outweighs the risk of a filler reaction to the vaccine. Therefore, if you have received facial filler, we see no reason to not get a COVID-19 vaccine. We do, however, recommend waiting approximately 4 weeks after vaccination to proceed with any new facial filler injections.”
–DR. MELANIE APPELL
Total Skin & Beauty Dermatology Physician
Check out this video from Dr. Melanie Appell
If you have questions or concerns regarding cosmetic fillers, please call our Cosmetic & Aesthetic Center: 205-380-6123
(This is for informational purposes only and not advice or guarantee of outcome. Information shared is from reputable sources, however, no individuals should use this information to self-diagnose or self-treat any health condition.)
