Efficacy and Safety of Tofacitinib in Lichen Planopilaris: A Retrospective Series of 74 Patients
Year: 2024
Type: article
Study design: Observational Study
Abstract: BACKGROUND: Lichen planopilaris (LPP) is a rare, inflammatory condition leading to scarring alopecia, predominantly affecting middle-aged women. Traditional treatments have shown limited efficacy, highlighting the need for novel therapeutic approaches. Tofacitinib, a Janus kinase (JAK) inhibitor, has shown promise in treating various autoimmune diseases, including autoimmune dermatological disorders. This study aims to evaluate the efficacy of tofacitinib in treating patients with LPP. METHODS: We conducted a retrospective, single-center observational study at Shohadaye Tajrish Hospital, reviewing records of 74 patients with biopsy-confirmed LPP who had extensive and treatment-resistant disease. Patients were treated with tofacitinib 5 mg twice daily for at least 16 weeks. Efficacy was assessed using the LPP Activity Index (LPPAI), and adverse events were monitored. RESULTS: <0.0001). Response rates varied: 21.62% within 1‒3 months, 24.32% within 3‒6 months, 33.78% within 6‒12 months, and 8.10% within 12‒24 months, with 6.75% showing no response. Adverse effects included headache (8.10%), hyperlipidemia (2.70%), elevated liver enzymes (5.40%), nausea (6.75%), and high blood pressure (4.15%). CONCLUSION: Tofacitinib represents a promising treatment for LPP, providing significant improvement in disease activity for most patients. Further research is needed to refine treatment protocols, understand predictors of response, and address gender-specific adverse effects.
Source: Archives of Iranian Medicine
DOI: 10.34172/aim.33237
Authors: Mehdi Goodarzi, Sahar Dadkhahfar, Faranak Yahyaei, Zahra Razzaghi, Hamideh Moravvej
Language: English
Topic: Hair Growth and Disorders
Subfield: Urology
Field: Medicine
Domain: Health Sciences
Open Access status: green
OpenAlex ID: W4405913563