Jason Hawkes, MD, MS: The IL-36 Inflammatory Pathway and Generalized Pustular Psoriasis

Ahead of National Generalized Pustular Psoriasis (GPP) Awareness Day, Dr. Hawkes gives an overview of the distinct clinical and immunologic features of GPP, emphasizing how this rare, life-threatening disease differs from plaque psoriasis in both presentation and underlying pathophysiology. He highlights the central role of interleukin-36 (IL-36) dysregulation in GPP, explains why therapies developed for plaque psoriasis often do not provide adequate control of the disease, and outlines the rationale for IL-36 receptor inhibition as a targeted treatment strategy. Dr. Hawkes also discusses the practical use of spesolimab for both acute flares and long-term maintenance, including patient selection, dosing approaches, and the rapid clinical responses observed with intravenous therapy.