Episodic Neuropathic-Like Musculoskeletal Pain Associated with Ritlecitinib Therapy in Alopecia Universalis: A Case Report

This case report discusses a 30-year-old male with alopecia universalis and multiple autoimmune and atopic conditions who experienced treatment failure with JAK inhibitors, including ritlecitinib. Despite the approval of JAK inhibitors for severe alopecia areata, the patient did not achieve meaningful hair regrowth and developed a severe episodic musculoskeletal pain syndrome while on ritlecitinib. This potential novel adverse effect, not well documented in existing literature, highlights the need for continued monitoring of JAK inhibitor side effects as their use in alopecia treatment grows.