Emerging treatments for dermatologic diseases in infants, children, and adolescents: a systematic review of clinical trials on biologics and small molecule inhibitors.

Abstract

Background: Recent advancements in the treatment of paediatric dermatological conditions have emerged with the introduction of biologics and small molecule inhibitors (SMIs). These therapies target specific inflammatory pathways, which may enhance treatment outcomes for diseases like atopic dermatitis, psoriasis, and alopecia areata.

Objectives: This systematic review seeks to assess the effectiveness and safety of biologics and SMIs for dermatologic conditions in children and adolescents, with an emphasis on randomised clinical trials.

Methods: We performed an extensive literature search across PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science, following PRISMA guidelines. Studies included in the review were those that analysed systemic treatments using biologics and SMIs in subjects under 18 years of age. We extracted data on participant demographics, treatment regimens, effectiveness outcomes, adverse effects, and follow-up details. The risk of bias in the studies was determined using the Cochrane Risk of Bias Tool (RoB2).

Results: From an initial pool of 1,454 studies, 49 articles fitting the inclusion criteria were identified, encompassing 6372 cases. The review found that biologics such as Dupilumab, along with investigational JAK inhibitors like Abrocitinib and Upadacitinib, exhibited considerable efficacy in treating various conditions, particularly atopic dermatitis and psoriasis. Dupilumab specifically demonstrated significant improvements in both disease severity and quality of life. While most reported adverse events were mild to moderate, some serious adverse events were noted with certain treatments.

Conclusions: Biologics and SMIs show great promise as therapeutic options in paediatric dermatology, offering better efficacy compared to traditional treatments. Despite these encouraging findings, additional research is needed to verify their long-term safety, especially in relation to growth and development in younger patients. Future investigations should aim to include a broader range of patient demographics and dermatological conditions beyond those currently studied.