Efficacy, Safety, and Real-World Aspects of Janus Kinase Inhibitors to Treat Patients with Alopecia Areata

February 2026 in “ Journal of Drugs in Dermatology ”

Douglas DiRuggiero, Kristine Kucera

alopecia areata autoimmune disease nonscarring hair loss Janus kinase inhibitors JAK signaling pathways trichoscopy biopsy AA JAK inhibitors

TLDR Janus kinase inhibitors are effective and safe for treating alopecia areata.

Alopecia areata (AA) is an autoimmune disease causing nonscarring hair loss, affecting 2% of the global population, with higher prevalence in females and certain ethnic groups. It often coexists with other autoimmune and inflammatory disorders, and significantly impacts mental health and quality of life. The disease is linked to genetic factors involving immune functions and Janus kinase (JAK) signaling pathways, with environmental factors also playing a role. Diagnosis is primarily clinical, supported by trichoscopy and sometimes biopsy. The increasing demand for dermatological care highlights the need for educating nurse practitioners and physician assistants in managing AA.

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