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Brooks SG, Yosipovitch G. A critical evaluation of nemolizumab for prurigo nodularis. Expert Rev Clin Immunol 2024; 20:577-587. [PMID: 38217530 DOI: 10.1080/1744666x.2024.2306225] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/03/2023] [Accepted: 01/12/2024] [Indexed: 01/15/2024]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Prurigo nodularis (PN) is a chronic inflammatory skin condition that presents with intensely pruritic, hyperkeratotic nodules. The pathophysiology underlying PN is not entirely clear, making treatment challenging. Patients often require a multimodal approach, although many of the available therapies have low efficacy or adverse effects. AREAS COVERED In this review, we discuss the use of nemolizumab for the treatment of PN in adults. Nemolizumab is a biological therapy that reduces type 2 cytokines and the neuroimmune response implicated in the pathophysiology of PN. It also helps maintain skin barrier integrity, which may be damaged during the vicious itch-scratch cycle. Nemolizumab has demonstrated great efficacy in improving itch and clearing lesions in recent clinical trials with respectable tolerance. EXPERT OPINION Nemolizumab is a promising drug for PN that seems comparable to the recently approved dupilumab in terms of its therapeutic effect and excellent safety profile, although nemolizumab may work more rapidly on itch. JAK inhibitors are also emerging as competitors of biologics for PN, however, their safety profile in this population may differ. Trials evaluating these drugs are needed to assess which is preferable. Additional data on the durability and longevity of nemolizumab for PN treatment is highly anticipated.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah G Brooks
- Dr. Phillip Frost Department of Dermatology and Cutaneous Surgery, Miami Itch Center, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL, USA
| | - Gil Yosipovitch
- Dr. Phillip Frost Department of Dermatology and Cutaneous Surgery, Miami Itch Center, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL, USA
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Yook HJ, Lee JH. Prurigo Nodularis: Pathogenesis and the Horizon of Potential Therapeutics. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:5164. [PMID: 38791201 PMCID: PMC11121340 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25105164] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/10/2024] [Revised: 04/18/2024] [Accepted: 04/18/2024] [Indexed: 05/26/2024] Open
Abstract
Chronic pruritus that lasts for over 6 weeks can present in various forms, like papules, nodules, and plaque types, with prurigo nodularis (PN) being the most prevalent. The pathogenesis of PN involves the dysregulation of immune cell-neural circuits and is associated with peripheral neuropathies, possibly due to chronic scratching. PN is a persistent and challenging condition, involving complex interactions among the skin, immune system, and nervous system. Lesional skin in PN exhibits the infiltration of diverse immune cells like T cells, eosinophils, macrophages, and mast cells, leading to the release of inflammatory cytokines and itch-inducing substances. Activated sensory nerve fibers aggravate pruritus by releasing neurotransmitters, perpetuating a vicious cycle of itching and scratching. Traditional treatments often fail, but recent advancements in understanding the inflammatory and itch transmission mechanisms of PN have paved the way for innovative therapeutic approaches, which are explored in this review.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Ji Hyun Lee
- Department of Dermatology, Seoul St. Mary’s Hospital, College of Medicine, The Catholic University of Korea, #222 Banpo-daero, Seocho-gu, Seoul 06591, Republic of Korea
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Biazus Soares G, Yosipovitch G. A critical review of dupilumab for adult patients with prurigo nodularis. Expert Rev Clin Immunol 2024; 20:249-254. [PMID: 37811660 DOI: 10.1080/1744666x.2023.2268291] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/12/2023] [Accepted: 10/04/2023] [Indexed: 10/10/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Prurigo nodularis (PN) is a chronic inflammatory skin condition that presents with pruritus and hyperkeratotic nodules. These symptoms impact patients' quality of life and mental health. Treating prurigo nodularis is challenging, and many of the available topical and systemic therapies have limited efficacy and a myriad of adverse effects. AREAS COVERED In this article, we discuss the use of dupilumab for adult patients with prurigo nodularis. Dupilumab is a biologic that inhibits Th2-mediated inflammation and has been successfully used to treat a variety of dermatologic disorders. Dupilumab has revolutionized the management of PN, with recent clinical trials showing its efficacy in treating both pruritus and prurigo nodules, as well as improving quality of life. It has a favorable safety profile and is well tolerated. Other novel treatments are also currently under investigation for the treatment of PN, with early studies reporting promising results. EXPERT OPINION Dupilumab is becoming the drug of choice for the treatment of PN and may also be effective in treating patients with systemic underlying causes of their PN, although more studies are needed to assess this. Trials evaluating the long-term efficacy and durability of dupilumab in PN are also of interest.
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Affiliation(s)
- Georgia Biazus Soares
- Phillip Frost Department of Dermatology and Cutaneous Surgery, Miami Itch Center, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL, United States
| | - Gil Yosipovitch
- Phillip Frost Department of Dermatology and Cutaneous Surgery, Miami Itch Center, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL, United States
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Gil-Lianes J, Morgado-Carrasco D, Riquelme-Mc Loughlin C. Treatment of chronic prurigo with upadacitinib: A case series. J Eur Acad Dermatol Venereol 2024; 38:e106-e109. [PMID: 37611279 DOI: 10.1111/jdv.19462] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/27/2023] [Accepted: 08/16/2023] [Indexed: 08/25/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- J Gil-Lianes
- Dermatology Department, Hospital Clínic de Barcelona, Universitat de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - D Morgado-Carrasco
- Dermatology Department, Hospital Clínic de Barcelona, Universitat de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
- Dermatology Department, Hospital de Figueres, Figueres, Spain
| | - C Riquelme-Mc Loughlin
- Dermatology Department, Hospital Clínic de Barcelona, Universitat de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
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Shao Y, Wang D, Zhu Y, Xiao Z, Jin T, Peng L, Shen Y, Tang H. Molecular mechanisms of pruritus in prurigo nodularis. Front Immunol 2023; 14:1301817. [PMID: 38077377 PMCID: PMC10701428 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2023.1301817] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/25/2023] [Accepted: 11/13/2023] [Indexed: 12/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Pruritus is the most common symptom of dermatological disorders, and prurigo nodularis (PN) is notorious for intractable and severe itching. Conventional treatments often yield disappointing outcomes, significantly affecting patients' quality of life and psychological well-being. The pathogenesis of PN is associated with a self-sustained "itch-scratch" vicious cycle. Recent investigations of PN-related itch have partially revealed the intricate interactions within the cutaneous neuroimmune network; however, the underlying mechanism remains undetermined. Itch mediators play a key role in pruritus amplification in PN and understanding their action mechanism will undoubtedly lead to the development of novel targeted antipruritic agents. In this review, we describe a series of pruritogens and receptors involved in mediating itching in PN, including cytokines, neuropeptides, extracellular matrix proteins, vasculogenic substances, ion channels, and intracellular signaling pathways. Moreover, we provide a prospective outlook on potential therapies based on existing findings.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Hui Tang
- Department of Dermatology, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
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Vander Does A, Yosipovitch G. Failure of Dupilimab With Severe Prurigo Nodularis That Responded Well to Abrocitinib. Dermatitis 2023; 34:567. [PMID: 36847309 DOI: 10.1089/derm.2022.0065] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/01/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Ashley Vander Does
- Dr. Phillip Frost Department of Dermatology and Miami Itch Center, University of Miami, Miami, FL, USA
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Agrawal D, Sardana K, Mathachan SR, Bhardwaj M, Ahuja A, Jain S, Panesar S. A case-control study addressing the population of epidermal and dermal inflammatory infiltrate including neural milieu in primary prurigo nodularis using S-100 and toluidine blue stain and its therapeutic implications. Int J Dermatol 2023; 62:1352-1358. [PMID: 37753716 DOI: 10.1111/ijd.16834] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/02/2023] [Revised: 07/21/2023] [Accepted: 08/31/2023] [Indexed: 09/28/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The pathogenesis of prurigo nodularis (PN) is considered to be multifactorial, with numerous cells and cytokines confabulating to produce an aberrant immune response. METHODS A cross-sectional observational study was done in cases of untreated primary prurigo nodularis cases with histopathological assessment in 49 cases from lesional and nonlesional skin with assessment of epidermal and dermal changes, dermal infiltrate, S-100 and toluidine blue staining to assess the expression of nerve and mast cells. RESULTS The most common histological changes seen in lesional skin were hyperkeratosis (98%), irregular hyperplasia (69.4%), hypergranulosis (69.4%), subepidermal clefting (6%), vertical collagen bundles (51.0%), and dermal fibrosis (48.9%). Chronic inflammatory infiltrate was seen in all cases (100%) predominantly of lymphocytes (100%) followed by eosinophils (18.4%), plasma cells (8.2%), and neutrophils (2.0%). There was a marked increase in the expression of S-100 (6.92 ± 3.40 vs. 3.94 ± 2.15, P < 0.001) and toluidine blue (4.99 ± 4.47 vs. 1.22 ± 1.28, P < 0.001) in the lesional skin as compared to the nonlesional skin. CONCLUSION We can infer that the epidermal and dermal pathology in PN is related to the infiltrate of lymphocytes, mast cells, and neural hyperplasia which perpetuate the pathogenesis by triggering the itch-inflammation cycle. Thus, apart from immunosuppressive agents that target lymphocytes and their cytokines, therapy targeted at mast cells and neural proliferation may be needed to treat prurigo nodularis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Diksha Agrawal
- Department of Dermatology, Venereology and Leprosy, Venkateshwara Institute of Medical Sciences, Amroha, Uttar Pradesh, India
| | - Kabir Sardana
- Department of Dermatology and STDs, Dr RML Hospital and ABVIMS, New Delhi, India
| | - Sinu Rose Mathachan
- Department of Dermatology and STDs, Dr RML Hospital and ABVIMS, New Delhi, India
| | - Minakshi Bhardwaj
- Department of Pathology, Dr. RML Hospital and ABVIMS, New Delhi, India
| | - Arvind Ahuja
- Department of Pathology, Dr. RML Hospital and ABVIMS, New Delhi, India
| | - Swasti Jain
- Department of Pathology, Dr. RML Hospital and ABVIMS, New Delhi, India
| | - Sanjeet Panesar
- Department of Community Medicine, Dr. RML Hospital and ABVIMS, New Delhi, India
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Sardana K, Rose Mathachan S, Agrawal D. Treatment of recalcitrant paediatric prurigo nodularis with tofacitinib, an exquisite example of bench-to-bedside translation of JAK-STAT expression. Indian J Dermatol Venereol Leprol 2023; 0:1-3. [PMID: 38031706 DOI: 10.25259/ijdvl_362_2023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/07/2023] [Accepted: 06/29/2023] [Indexed: 12/01/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Kabir Sardana
- Department of Dermatology, ABVIMS & Dr. Manohar Lohia Hospital, Baba Kharak Singh Rd, Gurudwara Bangla Sahib, Connaught Place, Delhi, New Delhi, India
| | - Sinu Rose Mathachan
- Department of Dermatology, ABVIMS & Dr. Manohar Lohia Hospital, Baba Kharak Singh Rd, Gurudwara Bangla Sahib, Connaught Place, Delhi, New Delhi, India
| | - Diksha Agrawal
- Department of Dermatology, Venkateshwara Institute of Medical Science, Jyotiba Phule Nagar, Gajraula, Uttar Pradesh, Gajraula, India
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Muddebihal A, Khurana A, Sardana K. JAK inhibitors in dermatology: the road travelled and path ahead, a narrative review. Expert Rev Clin Pharmacol 2023; 16:279-295. [PMID: 36946306 DOI: 10.1080/17512433.2023.2193682] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/23/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Numerous cutaneous dermatoses mediated by cytokines depend on the JAK STAT pathway for intracellular signaling. JAK inhibitors form a useful therapeutic approach in treating these conditions. The literature on effectiveness of JAK inhibitors in treatment of alopecia areata, vitiligo, atopic dermatitis, psoriasis and several other inflammatory and autoimmune diseases is growing, although very few conditions have sufficiently well performed studies to their credit and barring a few indications, their use in rest remains empirical as yet. AREAS COVERED A search of the PubMed database was made using the keywords Janus kinase inhibitors OR JAK inhibitors AND dermatology with the time duration limited to the last 5 years. Here, we review the JAK STAT pathway and the various conditions in which JAK inhibitors are currently used in dermatology and other conditions their use is being explored in. EXPERT OPINION The pathology of a large number of dermatological disorders is mediated via inflammatory cytokines which signal via the JAK STAT pathway. JAKinibs have shown great promise in treating cutaneous disorders refractory to conventional therapy. Their current clinical use in dermatology is based on robust evidence (for some), and anecdotal evidence for most other dermatoses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aishwarya Muddebihal
- Department of Dermatology, Venereology and Leprosy, North Delhi Municipal Corporation Medical College and Hindu Rao Hospital, Malka Ganj, Delhi, 110007, India
| | - Ananta Khurana
- Department of Dermatology, Venereology and Leprosy, Atal Bihari Vajpayee Institute of Medical Sciences and Dr Ram Manohar Lohia Hospital, New Delhi 110001, India
| | - Kabir Sardana
- Department of Dermatology, Venereology and Leprosy, Atal Bihari Vajpayee Institute of Medical Sciences and Dr Ram Manohar Lohia Hospital, New Delhi 110001, India
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Han Y, Woo YR, Cho SH, Lee JD, Kim HS. Itch and Janus Kinase Inhibitors. Acta Derm Venereol 2023; 103:adv00869. [PMID: 36789757 PMCID: PMC9944301 DOI: 10.2340/actadv.v103.5346] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/21/2022] [Accepted: 01/24/2023] [Indexed: 02/16/2023] Open
Abstract
Itch is a common skin symptom, with complex aetiology and pathogenesis. It is mediated by 2 pathways, the histaminergic and non-histaminergic pathways. Chronic itch is understood to be processed by the latter and is difficult to treat with traditional pruritus therapies. The Janus kinase and signal transducer and activator of transcription pathway is a signalling mechanism that regulates gene expression through various cytokines. Janus kinase inhibitors, which have been tested and used for several autoimmune diseases, have also been shown to be effective for itch through clinical trials and case reports. Janus kinase inhibitors could be a good choice for pruritus in atopic dermatitis, psoriasis, and other diseases, such as prurigo nodularis and lichen planus, with rapid itch relief compared with conventional treatments. The most common adverse effects reported include nasopharyngitis, acne, and elevated blood creatine phosphokinase levels. Janus kinase inhibitors are currently prescribed with warnings about a potential increase in malignancies and cardiovascular diseases and usage in people of older ages. This review aims to provide knowledge about itch and the Janus kinase and signal transducer and activator of transcription pathway and to analyse the current evidence for itch relief by Janus kinase inhibitors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yujin Han
- Department of Dermatology, Incheon St. Mary's Hospital, College of Medicine, The Catholic University of Korea, Seoul, Korea
| | - Yu Ri Woo
- Department of Dermatology, Incheon St. Mary's Hospital, College of Medicine, The Catholic University of Korea, Seoul, Korea
| | - Sang Hyun Cho
- Department of Dermatology, Incheon St. Mary's Hospital, College of Medicine, The Catholic University of Korea, Seoul, Korea
| | - Jeong Deuk Lee
- Department of Dermatology, Incheon St. Mary's Hospital, College of Medicine, The Catholic University of Korea, Seoul, Korea
| | - Hei Sung Kim
- Department of Dermatology, Incheon St. Mary's Hospital, College of Medicine, The Catholic University of Korea, Seoul, Korea.
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Mucke HAM. Drug Repurposing Patent Applications October-December 2022. Assay Drug Dev Technol 2023; 21:80-87. [PMID: 36809110 DOI: 10.1089/adt.2023.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/23/2023] Open
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Labib A, Ju T, Vander Does A, Yosipovitch G. Immunotargets and Therapy for Prurigo Nodularis. Immunotargets Ther 2022; 11:11-21. [PMID: 35502157 PMCID: PMC9056055 DOI: 10.2147/itt.s316602] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/19/2022] [Accepted: 04/08/2022] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Prurigo nodularis is a chronic inflammatory skin disease consisting of severely pruritic nodules that can be very debilitating for patients. The basis of this skin condition is immunological dysregulation and neural amplification, driven by T-lymphocytes, mast cells, eosinophilic granulocytes, macrophages, and cytokines mediating itchy processes. Further complicating this already taxing diagnosis is the lack of approved treatment and consensus on management; although there are off-label treatments utilized as therapy. Immunomodulators are the cornerstone of treatment for PN, and additional novel therapies targeting key players in the immunological cascade are currently undergoing investigation. In this review, we will highlight targets of the immune cascade and explore current immunomodulating treatments as well as immunotherapies on the horizon for the management of prurigo nodularis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Angelina Labib
- Dr. Phillip Frost Department of Dermatology and Cutaneous Surgery and Miami Itch Center, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL, USA
| | - Teresa Ju
- Dr. Phillip Frost Department of Dermatology and Cutaneous Surgery and Miami Itch Center, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL, USA
| | - Ashley Vander Does
- Dr. Phillip Frost Department of Dermatology and Cutaneous Surgery and Miami Itch Center, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL, USA
| | - Gil Yosipovitch
- Dr. Phillip Frost Department of Dermatology and Cutaneous Surgery and Miami Itch Center, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL, USA
- Correspondence: Gil Yosipovitch, Dr Phillip Frost Department of Dermatology and Cutaneous Surgery and Miami Itch Center, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, 1600 NW 10th Ave RMSB Building 2067B, Miami, FL, USA, Tel +1 305 213-5824, Email
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