Baricitinib triggering a central nervous system inflammatory-demyelinating disease: A case report

Abstract

Janus kinase inhibitors (JAKis), such as baricitinib, target the Janus kinase/signal transducers and activators of transcription pathway to regulate proinflammatory cytokines and T-helper cell activity, thereby reducing inflammation. Despite their therapeutic benefits, inflammatory demyelinating diseases of the central nervous system (CNS) have been reported in association with JAKi treatment, most previously involving tofacitinib in patients with rheumatoid arthritis. We report the first case of a CNS inflammatory demyelinating disease that was possibly exacerbated by baricitinib, underscoring the need for heightened clinical vigilance and close monitoring of patients receiving JAKi therapy.