Effectiveness and Safety of Oral Janus Kinase Inhibitors in Patients Aged 12 or Younger With Alopecia Areata: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

The systematic review and meta-analysis evaluated the effectiveness and safety of oral Janus kinase inhibitors in children aged 12 or younger with alopecia areata. The study included pooled outcomes for changes in the Severity of Alopecia Tool (SALT) scores, complete scalp hair regrowth, relapse rates, and adverse events. Subgroup analyses were conducted based on medication type, alopecia subtype, age group, and geographic location. The findings support the use of Janus kinase inhibitors in this population, highlighting their potential for significant hair regrowth and manageable safety profile, although the risk of relapse and adverse events should be considered.