Tofacitinib for managing granuloma formation after dermal filler injection: three case reports and literature review

Abstract

Background

Granuloma formation is an uncommon and persistent skin inflammatory condition caused by the injection of dermal fillers. The exact cause of this reaction is not well understood, but it may be associated with irritating components or abnormal immune function. Treating granulomas can be difficult. However, recent research has shown that Janus kinase (JAK) inhibitors hold promise as a potential therapy for refractory granulomatous diseases.

Objectives

The aim was to evaluate the efficacy and safety of tofacitinib as a treatment for granulomas secondary to filler injection and the possible mechanisms were discussed and summarized.

Methods

This study focuses on three cases of patients who experienced granuloma formation after receiving filler injections and were subsequently treated with tofacitinib. The efficacy and safety of the treatment were evaluated using parameters such as photographs and monitoring for any adverse reactions. In addition, a literature review was conducted to explore the underlying mechanisms and potential effects of tofacitinib.

Results

All three cases recovered from swelling and nodules without side effects through the off-label use of oral tofacitinib. Existing data review reveals some approaches for cutaneous granulomatous disorders like inhibiting macrophage activation and downregulation of the JAK–STAT pathway.

Conclusion

This report emphasizes the effectiveness of JAK inhibitors in treating granulomas caused by filler injections. Recent advancements in understanding the underlying mechanisms of granulomatous reactions have paved the way for JAK inhibitors to be regarded as a promising treatment choice. However, further research is necessary to fully assess the safety and long-term effectiveness of using tofacitinib for granuloma treatment.

Keywords:

• Filler
• granuloma
• tofacitinib
• treatment

Disclosure statement

No potential conflict of interest was reported by the author(s).

Additional information

Funding

This work was supported by Shenzhen Key Medical Discipline Construction Fund (No. SZXK040).