Topical rapamycin in the treatment of facial angiofibromas in tuberous sclerosis: a systematic review based on evidence

Abstract

Introduction

facial angiofibromas of tuberous sclerosis are the most prevalent cutaneous manifestation, affecting 80% of patients, which cause facial lesions with negative psychosocial consequences. Newly, topical rapamycin has been established as an effective and safe therapy for this skin condition.

Purpose

to analyze the available scientific evidence about the effectiveness and safety of topical sirolimus in the treatment of facial angiofibromas in tuberous sclerosis.

Methods

a literature search was conducted in PubMed and Cochrane. Effectiveness and safety were analyzed along with the main characteristics of each formulation in all included studies.

Results

thirty studies were included involving a total of 508 patients, developed in the last 20 years. Four randomized clinical trial, 17 case series and 9 single case reports were founded. Multiple topical rapamycin concentrations (0.003–1%) and formulations (gel, ointment, solution) were found in literature. Rapamycin demonstrated its effectiveness in all studies included, except for 5 patients in a 1 b study. Rapamycin was shown to be safe for the treatment of facial angiofibromas.

Conclusions

Topical sirolimus can be considered an effective and safety option for the treatment of facial angiofibromas in tuberous sclerosis. However, further long-term studies need to establish an evidence-based therapeutic protocol.

KEY MESSAGE

• Updated review to date in topical rapamycin for facial angiofibromas, allowing support in therapeutic decisions.

Keywords:

• Sirolimus
• rapamycin
• tuberous sclerosis
• facial angiofibromas
• topical
• systematic review

Correction Statement

This article has been republished with minor changes. These changes do not impact the academic content of the article.

Disclosure statement

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