Two Birds That Exclude Each Other: The Renbök Phenomenon
November 2014
in “
The journal of investigative dermatology/Journal of investigative dermatology
”
Studysummary This case report observed that oral tofacitinib treatment resolved both alopecia universalis and plaque psoriasis in a patient, possibly by targeting shared inflammatory pathways.
Our plain-language summary. Not medical advice or a treatment recommendation. Consult a qualified healthcare professional before changing treatment. Full disclaimer
The document discussed the Renbök phenomenon, where one inflammatory condition excludes another, observed in a patient with both psoriasis and alopecia universalis. Treatment with oral tofacitinib led to hair regrowth and resolution of psoriasis, suggesting that the drug suppressed or normalized the inflammatory pathways involved. This case highlighted the potential of Janus kinase inhibitors, which block IL15 signaling, as a promising therapy for both conditions. The findings underscored the distinct yet potentially overlapping inflammatory pathways in alopecia areata and psoriasis, and the need for further research to understand these mechanisms.
