Topical sirolimus in dermatology: a systematic review

Topical sirolimus is increasingly utilized off-licence to manage various dermatological conditions while avoiding typical adverse effects associated with systemic sirolimus. However, widespread use is limited by a highly heterogeneous evidence base of mixed quality. Our aim was to evaluate the current evidence base for the indications, efficacy and safety profile of topical sirolimus in dermatology. A literature search was conducted from 2005 to 4 July 2023, of English-language studies, with the following databases consulted: MEDLINE, PubMed, Embase, CENTRAL and EBSCO. Key words included 'topical', 'rapamycin', 'sirolimus' and 'dermatology'. Data on drug efficacy, concentration, side-effects, cointerventions and follow-up were extracted. The search identified 202 studies, 71 of which met the inclusion criteria. Efficacy of topical sirolimus was demonstrated in facial angiofibromas (799 patients) compared with placebo across multiple randomized controlled trials, with a predominant concentration of 0.1%. Evidence was mixed for use of sirolimus in port-wine stains (61 patients), with evidence of effectiveness for combined sirolimus and pulsed-dye laser. Multiple case reports demonstrated clinical improvement with topical sirolimus in cutaneous vascular abnormalities (33 patients) at a higher concentration of 1%. Other applications of topical sirolimus were predominantly case reports, demonstrating generally favourable outcomes. Topical sirolimus was generally well tolerated; most reported adverse effects were localized irritation and pruritus. Ointment-based preparations and once-daily dosing appeared to confer a better side-effect profile. Most high-quality data pertain to the efficacy of topical sirolimus in treating facial angiofibromas in tuberous sclerosis. Outcomes are generally promising in other indications, with good tolerability, but data quality is mixed. Topical sirolimus is increasingly used in an off-licence fashion to treat several dermatological conditions. However, the evidence base for its utility is highly heterogeneous and of mixed quality. This systematic review aims to establish the current evidence base for the indications, efficacy and safety profile of topical sirolimus in dermatology.