New treatment option could transform the lives of people with
debilitating condition and potentially save the NHS millions at
the same time.
NICE has today (November 5) recommended delgocitinib as a new
treatment option for adults with moderate to severe chronic hand
eczema, which could benefit just over 62,000 people in England
living with this debilitating condition.
The recommendation was made possible after the company presented
new evidence to NICE's independent appraisal committee. It will
be available on the NHS in England within 90 days to treat
moderate to severe chronic hand eczema in adults when steroid
creams have not worked or are not suitable.
Chronic hand eczema can cause symptoms such as dry, sore, itchy,
cracked, and bleeding skin, which can make everyday tasks painful
and difficult. It can be especially challenging for people
working outside or in professions like childcare, catering and
healthcare where repeated handwashing is necessary.
Delgocitinib, also known as Anzupgo and made by Leo Pharma, is a
cream that is applied twice daily to affected areas of the hands
and wrists. It can be applied at home, offering convenience for
people managing their condition. Delgocitinib has a 12-month
shelf life once opened, making it easier for people to restart
treatment when their symptoms flare up without needing new
hospital appointments.
The new treatment will provide an alternative for people with
moderate to severe chronic hand eczema who currently face limited
options when steroid creams have not worked or are not suitable.
Current treatment may include phototherapy (ultraviolet light
therapy) or oral alitretinoin (taken by mouth).
Many rely on phototherapy sessions, but this can be inconvenient
because it involves regular visits to hospital. Delgocitinib is
likely to need less monitoring than current treatments which can
cause significant side effects, particularly alitretinoin.
Delgocitinib could reduce outpatient procedures like
phototherapy, as well as freeing up valuable clinical capacity
for other people requiring specialist care.
The treatment will be available through specialist services,
ensuring people receive appropriate clinical oversight from
healthcare professionals experienced in diagnosing and treating
chronic hand eczema.
Delgocitinib will be available within 90 days of NICE's final
guidance being published today.
Read the full final guidance for delgocitinib for treating
moderate to severe chronic hand eczema.
