Psoriasis Course in Patients with Alopecia Areata Undergoing Baricitinib Therapy

TL;DR

This study examines how baricitinib affects psoriasis in patients with alopecia areata, finding it effective for hair loss but uncertain for psoriatic arthritis.

Contribution

The study provides insights into the use of baricitinib for managing coexisting alopecia areata and psoriasis.

Findings

Baricitinib achieved complete remission in one patient and significant improvement in two others with alopecia areata.

Psoriasis remained stable in patients treated with baricitinib.

One patient with psoriatic arthritis worsened and discontinued treatment.

Abstract

Background/Objectives: Alopecia areata (AA) and psoriasis are immune-mediated diseases that can coexist, suggesting shared pathogenic mechanisms. While Janus kinase inhibitors (JAKi) are approved for AA treatment, their role in managing concomitant psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis (PsA) remains unclear. This study evaluates the efficacy and safety of baricitinib in patients with severe AA and coexisting psoriasis and/or PsA. Materials and Methods: A retrospective case series of five patients (mean age 53.2 years) with severe AA (SALT > 80) or alopecia universalis (AU) and concomitant psoriasis (n = 2) and/or PsA (n = 3) was conducted in the Dermatology Unit of Policlinico of Tor Vergata, Catholic University of the Sacred Heart and La Sapienza University of Rome, Italy. Patients received baricitinib 4 mg/day and were assessed at weeks 4, 24, and 52 using SALT, PASI, and pVAS scores. Results: At week 52, one patient achieved complete AA remission, while two improved to SALT < 20 (mean SALT 83 to 8.75). Psoriasis remained stable (mean PASI 1.4 to 0.5). However, one PsA patient worsened (pVAS 9) and discontinued the treatment. Conclusions: Baricitinib was effective for AA, with potential benefits for psoriasis, but it may not be optimal for PsA. Further studies are needed to define its role in multiple immune diseases.

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