Role of Janus Kinase Inhibitors in the Treatment of Alopecia Areata

The document reviewed the role of Janus kinase (JAK) inhibitors in treating alopecia areata (AA), an autoimmune condition causing hair loss. It highlighted that JAK inhibitors like tofacitinib and ruxolitinib showed promise in promoting hair regrowth, with studies reporting significant improvements in many patients. For example, a study with 90 patients treated with tofacitinib showed 20% were complete responders and 38.4% were intermediate responders. However, hair loss often recurred after stopping treatment, and side effects included infections and liver enzyme elevations. The document emphasized the need for further research to confirm long-term efficacy and safety.