LEO Pharma’s delgocitinib cream has shown significant promise in treating chronic hand eczema (CHE), according to recently published Phase 3 trial results in The Lancet.
Chronic hand eczema, a persistent form of hand eczema (HE), affects a large number of individuals. It is characterized by symptoms that last more than three months or recur at least twice a year. The condition not only causes physical discomfort—such as persistent itching and pain—but also imposes psychological and functional burdens that significantly affect patients’ quality of life. Nearly 70% of those with severe cases report difficulties with daily activities.
The Phase 3 DELTA 1 and DELTA 2 trials evaluated the safety and efficacy of delgocitinib cream compared to a vehicle cream in adults with moderate-to-severe CHE who had not responded adequately to or were unsuitable for topical corticosteroids. The primary endpoint—successful treatment of CHE as assessed by the Investigator’s Global Assessment at week 16—was achieved in both studies.
Secondary endpoints were also met, with significant reductions in itch and pain scores observed. This was measured using the Hand Eczema Symptom Diary from baseline to week 16. Additionally, patients showed improvements of 75% and 90% from baseline on the Hand Eczema Severity Index during the same period.
Dr. Robert Bissonnette of Innovaderm Research, the lead author of the study, commented, “Historically, chronic hand eczema has been under-researched. The publication of the DELTA 1 and 2 trials in The Lancet is a significant step forward in recognizing this condition and underscores the increasing quality and pace of research in this field. Such milestones are crucial in our ongoing efforts to enhance the daily lives of those affected by CHE.”
This announcement follows a recent survey conducted by LEO Pharma UK and Ireland, in collaboration with Allergy UK and a multi-disciplinary taskforce. The survey revealed that 50% of the 152 patients reported experiencing anxiety or anger due to their CHE, while 70% indicated that the condition affects their existing relationships and their ability to form new ones.
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