Efficacy and safety of topical sirolimus for the treatment of
angiofibromas in tuberous sclerosis: a systematic review and
meta-analysi
Abstract
Background: Facial angiofibromas (FAs) are common skin manifestations of
tuberous sclerosis complex (TSC) that occur in up to 80% of patients.
Rapamycin seems to be effective in decreasing FAs. Objective: The aim of
our study was to investigate the efficacy and safety of topically
applied rapamycin in TSC patients with FAs. Methods: The methods and the
results were carried out according to the Preferred Reporting Items for
Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) Statement. PubMed/MEDLINE,
SCOPUS, and Cochrane database were systematically searched until April
21, 2022, using the PICO tool (Patient, Interventions, Comparisons,
Outcome). Studies regarding efficacy and/or safety of topical sirolimus
for the treatment of FAs in TSC with a published full-text in English
were included. Safety was assessed based on adverse effects and
sirolimus’ blood levels, and efficacy was documented by clinical
improvement and reduction of Facial Angiofibroma Severity Index (FASI).
For Meta-analysis, Review Manager (RevMan) 5.4.1 software was used,
using random-effects model and standardized mean difference (SMD) with
95% confidence interval (CI). Results: Twenty-one final studies were
included. Regarding safety, in the included studies the observed adverse
effects were mainly local, while the blood levels of rapamycin were
within safe limits, decreasing the likelihood of systemic
immunosuppression. The meta-analysis revealed a statistically
significant decrease in post-treatment FASI (SMD: -1.31, 95% CI:
[-1.85,-0.77], p-value <0.00001). Subgroup and sensitivity
analyses indicated similar findings. No publication bias was found to
this association. Conclusion: The application of topical sirolimus to
FAs can safely decrease their severity in patients with TSC.