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Cicatricial Ectropion in the Setting of IL-13 Inhibition

October 2026 | Volume 25 | Issue 10 | 971 | Copyright © October 2026


Published online September 29, 2026

Marley Cutrona BSa, Rabail Aslam MDa,b, Ahmed Zakik BSa, Ahuva Cices MDa

aDepartment of Dermatology, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY
bDepartment of Dermatopathology, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY

Abstract
Introduction: Interleukin (IL)-13 is a key mediator of type 2 inflammation and an important therapeutic target in atopic dermatitis (AD). Although IL-4/IL-13 and IL-13 inhibitors demonstrate favorable safety profiles, ocular adverse events are recognized complications. Conjunctivitis is most commonly reported, and cicatricial ectropion has been described with IL-4/IL-13 inhibition. We report what is, to our knowledge, the first reported case of cicatricial ectropion associated with inhibition of soluble IL-13.
Case Presentation: An 81-year-old man with longstanding AD involving 60% body surface area was treated with dupilumab with marked improvement. Seven months later, he developed ocular pruritus and tearing and was diagnosed with atopic keratoconjunctivitis. One month later, ophthalmologic examination revealed inferior cicatricial ectropion of the left lower eyelid. Discontinuation of dupilumab and treatment with oral prednisone and topical tacrolimus led to resolution. Subsequent treatment with tralokinumab resulted in recurrence of cicatricial ectropion within one month, prompting discontinuation and treatment with topical polymyxin B-trimethoprim and oral prednisone. Upadacitinib was initiated with sustained clearance of AD and no recurrence of ocular symptoms.
Discussion: Cicatricial ectropion has been rarely reported with dupilumab but has not previously been described with soluble IL-13 inhibition. In this case, ectropion developed with dupilumab, resolved after discontinuation, and recurred with tralokinumab, suggesting a direct effect of IL-13 inhibition. This case highlights the need for awareness of rare ocular complications associated with targeted therapies for AD and underscores the importance of multidisciplinary management.

 

INTRODUCTION

Inhibition of interleukin (IL)-13, a key mediator of type 2 inflammation, is a highly effective and targeted therapeutic strategy for atopic dermatitis (AD).1 Despite an excellent safety profile, ocular adverse effects are a relatively common cause of treatment discontinuation.1 Here we describe what is, to our knowledge, the first reported case of cicatricial ectropion associated with soluble IL-13 inhibition.

Case Report
An 81-year-old man presented for evaluation of a widespread rash present intermittently since childhood. His history was notable for seasonal allergies and ocular history of cataracts, dry eyes, and epiphora. At the time of evaluation, he was not receiving treatment, although he had previously used multiple topical corticosteroids. Examination revealed eczematous patches and plaques involving 60% body surface area (BSA) and Investigator Global Assessment (IGA) 3, prompting initiation of dupilumab at standard dosing (600 mg loading dose followed by 300 mg every two weeks). Seven months after initiation, he developed pruritus and tearing of both eyes without pain or visual changes. Examination revealed few eczematous papules and plaques involving the scalp, trunk and extremities, BSA 3% and IGA 1, overall, much improved from prior examinations. Ophthalmologic exam showed bilateral upper and lower lid