Treating rosacea with botulism toxin: Protocol for a systematic review and meta-analysis

Area of Science:

• Dermatology
• Pharmacology

Background:

• Rosacea is a chronic inflammatory skin condition characterized by persistent erythema and flushing.
• Current treatments for rosacea often yield unsatisfactory results and are prone to recurrence.
• Botulinum toxin is emerging as a potential novel therapeutic agent for rosacea.

Purpose of the Study:

• To systematically review and meta-analyze the efficacy and safety of botulinum toxin for rosacea treatment.
• To provide comprehensive and detailed evidence for clinicians regarding botulinum toxin's use in rosacea.

Main Methods:

• A systematic review and meta-analysis was conducted.
• Included studies utilized botulinum toxin for the treatment of rosacea.
• 22 studies, including 9 randomized controlled trials with 720 participants, were analyzed.

Main Results:

• All included studies reported improvements in rosacea signs and symptoms post-treatment.
• Clinician's Erythema Assessment (CEA) scores were significantly reduced.
• Observed improvements were sustained for several months, with mild and self-limiting adverse effects.

Conclusions:

• Botulinum toxin may represent an effective treatment option for patients suffering from rosacea.
• Additional clinical evidence is required to establish the long-term efficacy and safety profile.
• The study is registered with Prospero (CRD42022358911).