A Dose Ranging Study of AIN457 in Patients With Moderate to Severe Chronic Plaque-type Psoriasis

Inclusion Criteria: Chronic plaque-type psoriasis diagnosed for at least 6 months at time of randomization At randomization, moderate to severe psoriasis as defined by: * PASI score of 12 or greater and, * IGA score of 3 or greater and, * Body Surface Area (BSA) affected by plaque-type psoriasis of 10% or greater At screening and randomization, chronic plaque-type psoriasis considered inadequately controlled by topical treatment. Exclusion Criteria: * Forms of psoriasis other than chronic plaque-type * Drug-induced psoriasis (e.g., new onset or current exacerbation from beta-blockers, calcium channel inhibitors or lithium) at randomization * Previous exposure to AIN457 * Ongoing use of prohibited psoriasis treatments / medications and other prohibited medication at randomization. Washout periods detailed in the protocol have to be adhered to * Known immunosuppression (e.g., AIDS) at screening and / or randomization * History or evidence of active tuberculosis at screening * Active systemic infections (other than common cold) * History or symptoms of malignancy of any organ system, treated or untreated, within the past 5 years. * Any severe, progressive or uncontrolled medical condition at randomization that in the judgment of the investigator prevents the patient from participating in the study * Any clinically significant abnormal laboratory tests at randomization, that in the judgment of the investigator prevents the patient from participating in the study * Inability or unwillingness to undergo repeated venipuntures * History or evidence of drug or alcohol abuse * Pregnant or nursing (lactating) women Other protocol-defined inclusion/exclusion criteria may apply