Work

Baricitinib in two paediatric patients with coatomer subunit alpha (COPA) syndrome: A case series and literature review

Year: 2026

Type: article

Abstract: Coatomer subunit α (COPA) syndrome is a rare, autosomal dominant inborn error of immunity driven by dysregulated type I interferon signalling. It typically presents in early childhood with interstitial lung disease, arthritis, and systemic inflammation. Current treatments are largely extrapolated from adult protocols, and disease management remains challenging. Recent evidence suggests that Janus kinase inhibitors (JAKi), which block interferon signalling, may offer a targeted therapeutic approach. We report on two paediatric patients with genetically confirmed COPA syndrome who demonstrated sustained clinical improvement following the initiation of baricitinib, a JAKi. Both cases exhibited early onset interstitial lung disease and systemic inflammation. Genetic testing identified pathogenic variants in the COPA gene. Conventional immunosuppressants provided only partial and temporary relief with disease flares occurring when immunosuppression was tapered. Baricitinib was initiated, and both patients showed a rapid clinical response, improved pulmonary function, reduced systemic inflammation, lung parenchymal radiographic stabilisation, and improvement of interstitial lung disease symptoms. Baricitinib was well tolerated overall and enabled the tapering and discontinuation of corticosteroids and other immunosuppressants. These cases align with the limited existing literature showing the efficacy of JAKi in COPA syndrome and further support the role of precision medicine targeting type I interferonopathies. While long-term safety data remain limited, early findings suggest that JAK inhibition represents a promising therapeutic strategy in COPA syndrome. Careful monitoring for viral reactivation and infection is essential. Larger studies and longer follow-up are needed to validate these results and to optimise the management of this complex paediatric autoimmune disease.

Source: Modern Rheumatology Case Reports

DOI: 10.1093/mrcr/rxag052

Authors: Enrique G Villarreal, Dilan Dissanayake, Ronald M Laxer, Kenneth W Yip, Fiona Kritzinger

Institutions: University of Toronto, Hospital for Sick Children, SickKids Foundation, Sickkids Research Institute

Language: English

Topic: Immunodeficiency and Autoimmune Disorders

Subfield: Immunology

Field: Immunology and Microbiology

Domain: Life Sciences

SDG: Good health and well-being

Open Access status: hybrid

Estimated APC paid: $1,071