Work

Janus kinase inhibitors as a breakthrough treatment for refractory dissecting cellulitis of the scalp

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: Background: Dissecting cellulitis of the scalp (DCS) is a rare, chronic neutrophilic dermatosis that is often refractory to conventional therapies. Case report: We present a 29-year-old male with treatment-resistant DCS who achieved rapid and sustained remission following off-label use of tofacitinib, a Janus kinase (JAK) inhibitor. Previous therapies, including antibiotics, corticosteroids, and isotretinoin, had failed. After 9 weeks of tofacitinib 10 mg daily, the patient showed marked improvement and maintained remission for 6 months without side effects. Conclusion: This case supports JAK inhibitors as a promising therapeutic strategy in refractory DCS, highlighting their potential role in managing challenging inflammatory dermatoses. LEARNING POINTS: The case highlights the practical, off-label use of JAK inhibitors in dermatology, providing internists and multidisciplinary teams with a viable option for patients suffering from severe, treatment-resistant conditions.

Source: European Journal of Case Reports in Internal Medicine

DOI: 10.12890/2025_005743

Authors: Ali Al-Mamoori, Sajjad Ghanim Awad Al-Badri, Sabry Babiker H. Sayed, Wael Al-Daraji

Institutions: Baghdad Medical City, University of Warith Al-Anbiyaa, International University of Africa, Ain Shams University Hospital

Language: English

Topic: Autoimmune and Inflammatory Disorders

Subfield: Epidemiology

Field: Medicine

Domain: Health Sciences

SDG: Good health and well-being

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $323