Refractory eosinophilic pustular folliculitis treated with tofacitinib: a case series and literature review

Abstract Objectives Eosinophilic pustular folliculitis (EPF) is an uncommon skin condition that presents as follicular papules or pustules. The treatment of EPF is challenging due to the high relapse rates. This study aimed to evaluate the efficacy and safety of tofacitinib as a treatment for EPF. Methods We presented 3 patients with refractory EPF who had been successfully treated with tofacitinib at our clinic and conducted a literature review using the PubMed database to gain further insight into this promising therapy. Results Our patients were effectively treated with tofacitinib. To date, only three patients with EPF treated with Janus kinase (JAK) inhibitors have been reported and reviewed: one treated with tofacitinib and two with abrocitinib. Complete remission was observed in all the above patients, with no adverse events or relapses reported during an average follow-up period of 4.3 months. Conclusion Tofacitinib may be an emerging alternative treatment option for EFP patients. Larger randomized controlled studies are needed to confirm these findings.