Case Report: Successful Treatment of Pediatric Alopecia Universalis with Ritlecitinib After Failure of Baricitinib

    December 2025 in “ Frontiers in Medicine ”
    Xiaoqing Lv, Ying Chen, Shi‐Fan Ruan, Qiuyun Xu, Jing Mao, Li Zhu, Wenjie Xia, Siyi Bao, Zheyu Zhuang, Lihong Chen, Bo Cheng, Chao Ji
    From the encyclopedia
    Baricitinib →

    JAK inhibitor that reduces inflammation and immune attacks on hair follicles, leading to potential hair regrowth, especially in alopecia areata cases

    Alopecia Areata →

    autoimmune disorder causing patchy hair loss

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    Studysummary This case report presents the first instance of a pediatric alopecia areata patient switching from baricitinib to ritlecitinib, demonstrating favorable clinical outcomes, suggesting a potential new treatment pathway for children with severe cases of this condition. Our plain-language summary of this paper — not a Tressless recommendation.
    This case report discusses a pediatric patient with alopecia universalis who experienced successful treatment with ritlecitinib after baricitinib failed. Alopecia areata in children is challenging to treat and often recurs, causing significant distress. Current treatments have limited efficacy and many side effects. This is the first documented case of a child transitioning from baricitinib to ritlecitinib, leading to positive clinical outcomes, marking a significant advancement in treating chronic severe alopecia areata in children.
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