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Updated: Jan 10, 2026
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A Method for Screening and Validation of Resistant Mutations Against Kinase Inhibitors
Published on: December 7, 2014
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Kimura disease responded well to tofacitinib in three cases
Mengzhou Cao1,2,3,4, Yu Xiao1,2,3,4, Yang Wang1,2,3,4,5
1Department of Dermatology and Venerology, Peking University First Hospital, Beijing, China.
The Journal of Dermatological Treatment
|November 24, 2025
Summary
Tofacitinib, a Janus kinase (JAK) inhibitor, shows promise for treating Kimura disease (KD). This study found tofacitinib effectively reduced lesions and was well-tolerated in three KD patients, with no relapses after treatment cessation.
Area of Science:
- Dermatology
- Immunology
- Pharmacology
Background:
- Kimura disease (KD) is a rare inflammatory condition with unknown causes.
- Current KD treatments face challenges including variable efficacy, high recurrence, and adverse effects.
- Novel therapeutic strategies for KD are urgently needed.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the efficacy and safety of tofacitinib in treating Kimura disease.
- To assess the potential of Janus kinase (JAK) inhibition as a therapeutic approach for KD.
Main Methods:
- Three patients with Kimura disease were treated with tofacitinib.
- The dosage administered was 5 mg of tofacitinib twice daily.
- Treatment outcomes and adverse effects were monitored.
Main Results:
- All three patients experienced significant lesion size reduction within two months.
- Complete resolution of lesions was achieved in 6-20 months.
- The treatment was well-tolerated, with no relapses during follow-up.
Conclusions:
- Tofacitinib demonstrates safety and durable efficacy in treating Kimura disease.
- This JAK inhibitor represents a promising novel therapeutic option for KD patients.
- Further research may validate tofacitinib as a standard treatment for KD.
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