Eosinophil-related diseases during treatment with glucagon-like peptide one receptor (GLP-1 RA): a case report and review of the literature

A Closer Look at the Dermatological Profile of GLP-1 Agonists

BACKGROUND/OBJECTIVES

Glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists (GLP-1RAs) are widely used in treating type 2 diabetes and obesity, offering established metabolic and cardiovascular benefits. Emerging evidence suggests these agents also exert direct dermatologic effects. This systematic review categorizes these effects and explores their role in inflammatory skin diseases.

METHODS

A comprehensive literature search was performed across EMBASE, PubMed, Web of Science, and Google Scholar for studies published from 2014 to 2025. Inclusion criteria were English-language, peer-reviewed original research involving human subjects that linked GLP-1RAs to dermatologic effects. Animal and in vitro studies were excluded. PRISMA guidelines were followed.

RESULTS

Fifty-one studies met inclusion criteria. Thirty-four reported adverse effects, including hypersensitivity, injection-site reactions, pruritus, urticaria, angioedema, and immune-mediated conditions like bullous pemphigoid. Seventeen studies described beneficial outcomes, such as improvements in psoriasis, reduced hidradenitis suppurativa flares, enhanced wound healing, anti-aging potential, and decreased inflammation. GLP-1RAs showed cytokine modulation in psoriasis, though their role in hidradenitis suppurativa remains uncertain. Cosmetic concerns, such as "Ozempic Face" due to rapid weight loss, were also noted.

CONCLUSIONS

GLP-1RAs have a broad spectrum of dermatologic effects, from immunomodulatory benefits to adverse cutaneous reactions. Their impact on inflammatory skin disorders suggests a novel therapeutic avenue. However, adverse reactions and aesthetic changes warrant vigilance. Future research should focus on mechanistic studies, long-term safety, and identifying biomarkers to predict dermatologic responses, ultimately guiding personalized treatment approaches.

A Review of Glucagon-like Peptide-1 in Dermatology

Objective

Glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) is a hormone produced in response to meal intake by endocrine intestinal cells. GLP-1 binds to its receptors which are expressed on various cells throughout the body. GLP-1 receptors (GLP-1R) have become a target for the treatment of diabetes mellitus and weight loss, and GLP-1 receptor agonist (GLP-1RA) use has become more common among patients. In addition to the anti-hyperglycemic effects, recent studies have exhibited anti-inflammatory effects of GLP-1RAs. Current research surrounding GLP-1Rs and GLP-1R agonism in dermatology is limited. This review aims to describe the current knowledge of GLP-1Rs and GLP-1RA use in dermatology and suggest future directions.

Methods

A literature search focused on GLP-1RAs and their effect on cutaneous disease processes was performed across various databases. The databases were searched through May 2024.

Results

The use of GLP-1RAs have shown promising anti-inflammatory effects and improvement in wound healing, psoriasis, and hidradenitis suppurativa. Several cutaneous adverse reactions to GLP-1RAs were also identified with injection site pruritus, erythema, and rash being the most commonly reported.

Limitations

Current literature is limited to case reports and small-scale studies.

Conclusion

The literature suggests anti-inflammatory effects of GLP-1RAs may provide direct benefit in the treatment of dermatologic conditions independent of glucose control in addition to indirect improvement via modulation of blood glucose and weight loss. Further studies investigating the implications of GLP-1RA use and the possible therapeutic potential of GLP-1RAs in inflammatory skin conditions are warranted.

Hypereosinophilic syndrome: a rare cause of ST-elevation myocardial infarction and thrombus formation on the aortic valve

We present a case of a man in his 30s presenting with ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction and eosinophilia. The patient underwent thrombus aspiration and initially echocardiographic evaluation was normal. The patient was discharged after 2 days, but was hospitalised again after 6 days. Echocardiographic evaluation now revealed a thrombus formation on the aortic valve. Laboratory data revealed increasing eosinophilia, and treatment with high-dosage corticosteroids and hydroxyurea was initiated as eosinophilic disease with organ manifestations could not be precluded. Eosinophils normalised and the patient was discharged again. The combination of hypereosinophilia and absence of infection, rheumatological disorders and malignancy, led to reactive or idiopathic hypereosinophilic syndrome being the most plausible diagnoses. The patient was closely monitored in the cardiology and haematology outpatient clinics. Echocardiographic evaluation, performed 6 weeks after the patient was discharged, showed significant regression in the size of the thrombus mass.