Delgocitinib cream shows promise in phase 3 chronic hand eczema trials

LEO Pharma’s investigational JAK-inhibitor cream has shown promising results in improving chronic hand eczema (CHE) according to findings published in *The Lancet*. Hand eczema (HE) is the most prevalent skin condition affecting the hands, and CHE is specifically characterized by the persistence of HE for more than three months or recurrent episodes at least twice a year. Alongside physical discomforts such as itchiness and pain, CHE can significantly impact patients' mental and functional quality of life. Approximately 70% of individuals with severe CHE report difficulties in performing routine activities.

The phase 3 clinical trials, DELTA 1 and DELTA 2, have been evaluating the safety and effectiveness of delgocitinib cream in comparison to a vehicle cream in adults suffering from moderate-to-severe CHE who had either not responded adequately to, or were not recommended, topical corticosteroids. The primary goal of these studies was to assess the success of the treatment by using the Investigator’s Global Assessment for chronic hand eczema at the 16-week mark, a criterion that was successfully met in both trials.

In addition to meeting the primary endpoint, all secondary objectives were also achieved. These included reductions in itch and pain scores by at least four points, as measured by the Hand Eczema Symptom Diary from baseline to week 16. Significant improvements were also noted in the Hand Eczema Severity Index, with 75% and 90% improvements from baseline during the same treatment period.

Dr. Robert Bissonnette from Innovaderm Research, who is the lead author of the study, emphasized the importance of these findings. He stated that CHE has historically been under-researched, so the publication of the DELTA 1 and 2 trials in *The Lancet* represents a significant step towards raising awareness and understanding of this condition. According to Dr. Bissonnette, such publications play a critical role in advancing research and improving the everyday lives of those affected by CHE.

This announcement comes in close succession to a recent survey conducted by LEO Pharma UK and Ireland, which examined the burdens of CHE. Designed with input from Allergy UK and a multi-disciplinary taskforce, the survey revealed that 50% of the 152 patients surveyed experienced feelings of anxiety or anger due to their condition. Additionally, 70% reported that CHE adversely affected their current relationships or hindered their ability to form new ones.