Surreal illustration of Crohn's disease and related skin lesions

Crohn's Disease & Your Skin: Decoding the Connection

Reese Marlowe in Health & Wellness December 2025 • 4 min read.

"Could your skin problems be linked to your Crohn's treatment? New research explores the surprising connection between skin lesions and anti-TNF-α therapy."

Crohn's disease (CD), a type of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), brings a host of challenges, from abdominal pain to digestive issues. But did you know it can also affect your skin? While some skin conditions are directly related to Crohn's, others might arise as a side effect of the very treatments designed to help you feel better.

One such treatment is anti-tumor necrosis factor-alpha (anti-TNF-α) therapy. These medications work by reducing inflammation in the gut, but recent studies suggest they might also trigger skin lesions in some individuals. If you're undergoing anti-TNF-α therapy and noticing new or worsening skin issues, you're not alone.

This article breaks down the connection between anti-TNF-α therapy and skin lesions in Crohn's disease patients. We'll explore the research findings, explain the underlying mechanisms, and offer insights to help you understand and manage this surprising side effect.

Why is my Crohn's treatment causing skin problems?

Surreal illustration of Crohn's disease and related skin lesions

Researchers have been investigating the relationship between skin lesions and specific immune system components in Crohn's patients undergoing anti-TNF-α therapy. A 2014 study published in the World Journal of Gastroenterology shed light on this complex issue.

The study focused on 30 adult Crohn's patients receiving anti-TNF-α treatment (infliximab, adalimumab, or certolizumab). The researchers carefully tracked the development of skin lesions and measured the levels of certain cytokines – IL-17A, IL-23, and interferon-γ (IFN-γ) – in their blood.

The findings were eye-opening: Skin manifestations occurred in a significant 60% of patients during anti-TNF-α therapy.
Types of Lesions: The most common skin issues were psoriasiform lesions (resembling psoriasis) and eczema-like lesions.
Timing: These skin problems typically emerged around 10 months after starting anti-TNF-α treatment.

Interestingly, patients who developed skin lesions had higher levels of IL-17A and IL-23 in their blood compared to those who didn't. This suggests that these cytokines play a key role in the development of skin issues related to anti-TNF-α therapy.

What does this mean for you?

If you're living with Crohn's and undergoing anti-TNF-α therapy, it's essential to be aware of the potential for skin-related side effects. While these medications can be life-changing in managing Crohn's symptoms, they can also disrupt the delicate balance of your immune system.

The good news is that these skin lesions are often reversible once the anti-TNF-α treatment is stopped. However, it's crucial to work closely with your gastroenterologist and dermatologist to find the best approach. They may consider adjusting your medication, prescribing topical treatments, or exploring alternative therapies.

By understanding the link between anti-TNF-α therapy and skin lesions, you can take proactive steps to manage your health and minimize potential side effects. Open communication with your healthcare team is key to finding the right balance between controlling your Crohn's symptoms and maintaining healthy, comfortable skin.

About this Article -

This article was crafted using a human-AI hybrid and collaborative approach. AI assisted our team with initial drafting, research insights, identifying key questions, and image generation. Our human editors guided topic selection, defined the angle, structured the content, ensured factual accuracy and relevance, refined the tone, and conducted thorough editing to deliver helpful, high-quality information.See our About page for more information.

This article is based on research published under:

DOI-LINK: 10.3748/wjg.v20.i22.7019, Alternate LINK

Title: Correlations Between Skin Lesions Induced By Anti-Tumor Necrosis Factor-Α And Selected Cytokines In Crohn'S Disease Patients

Subject: Gastroenterology

Journal: World Journal of Gastroenterology

Publisher: Baishideng Publishing Group Inc.

Authors: Marcin Włodarczyk

Published: 2014-01-01

Everything You Need To Know

What is the connection between Crohn's disease and skin problems?

Crohn's disease (CD), an inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), can manifest in various ways, including skin problems. Some skin conditions are directly linked to Crohn's, while others are side effects of treatments. This article explores the connection between anti-TNF-α therapy and the emergence of skin lesions.

What is anti-TNF-α therapy and why is it used in Crohn's disease?

Anti-TNF-α therapy is a treatment used to reduce inflammation in the gut for those with Crohn's disease. However, it can have side effects, including skin lesions. The therapy works by targeting the tumor necrosis factor-alpha, which is involved in inflammation. While effective for gut inflammation, it can disrupt the immune system's balance, potentially leading to skin issues.

What kind of skin problems can arise from anti-TNF-α therapy?

Skin lesions can appear in people undergoing anti-TNF-α therapy for Crohn's disease. A 2014 study in the World Journal of Gastroenterology found that around 60% of patients developed skin manifestations. These often appear as psoriasiform lesions (resembling psoriasis) and eczema-like lesions. These skin problems typically start around 10 months after beginning the anti-TNF-α treatment.

What factors are linked to the development of skin lesions in patients receiving anti-TNF-α therapy?

The development of skin lesions during anti-TNF-α therapy appears linked to certain immune system components. Patients who developed skin lesions had higher levels of IL-17A and IL-23 in their blood compared to those who didn't. These cytokines play a key role in causing skin issues linked to anti-TNF-α therapy. The findings suggest that anti-TNF-α therapy can affect the immune system.

What should someone with Crohn's disease and undergoing anti-TNF-α therapy do if they develop skin problems?

If you're undergoing anti-TNF-α therapy for Crohn's, it's important to be aware of potential skin-related side effects. Discuss any new or worsening skin issues with your healthcare provider. While anti-TNF-α therapy can effectively manage Crohn's symptoms, it's essential to monitor for any adverse effects on your skin. Understanding these links can help you manage your health better.