95% of patients with rare skin condition report improvements with cannabis topicals

A new study of a rare skin condition has revealed that different preparations of cannabinoids could have benefits for patients with painful Epidermolysis Bullosa (EB).

Epidermolysis Bullosa (EB) is the name of a group of rare inherited skin disorders that can cause the skin to become fragile.

It is thought to be caused by a gene mutation that makes the skin more fragile and any trauma or friction can cause painful blisters on the skin. There is currently no cure but treatment aims to prevent infection and reduce symptoms.

The study from the Netherlands and the United States analysed EB patients on five different continents who reported using cannabis preparations as a treatment for their rare skin condition.

The data is published in the Orphanet Journal of Rare Diseases. The patients reported using topical cannabinoid products in addition to inhaling cannabis flowers. They also consumed cannabis-infused edibles.

Patients were given a survey on their skin condition that focused on monitoring effects including perceived EB symptom changes, medication use, and side effects. 

Skin condition results

Results recorded that 95 percent said the topicals improved their overall skin condition symptoms with 94 percent stating their pain levels were decreased.

A further 91 percent said they had less itching and 81 reported wound healing was improved. Most of the participants at 79 percent said they had decreased their medication for their skin condition. The only side effect with a notable significance was dry mouth at 44 percent.

The authors noted that cannabis improved patient’s “perception of pain, pruritus, wound-healing, and well-being … and reduced concomitant medication use.”

They wrote that: “Future prospective controlled clinical studies are warranted to elucidate the potential role of CBMs (cannabis-based medicines) in EB treatment.”

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