A Review of Janus Kinase Inhibitor Use in Scarring Alopecia

The review explores the potential of Janus kinase inhibitors (JAKis) as a promising treatment for scarring alopecias, which cause irreversible hair loss. JAKis like tofacitinib, baricitinib, and upadacitinib have shown significant clinical improvements in conditions such as lichen planopilaris (LPP) and frontal fibrosing alopecia (FFA), with enhanced hair regrowth and reduced severity scores. A phase 2a trial of brepocitinib also showed promising results. The review emphasizes the need for further research to optimize treatment protocols, ensure long-term safety, and develop personalized approaches. The study included data on 154 patients, primarily female, with various scarring alopecia diagnoses, and highlights the need for larger, controlled trials to confirm efficacy and safety.