Testing a topical treatment for pilonidal disease

Topical Anti-Androgens in Pilonidal Sinus Disease

Phase 2 Interventional University of Pennsylvania · NCT06286397

This study is testing a new cream to see if it can help people with pilonidal disease feel better and reduce their symptoms.

Quick facts

PhasePhase 2
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment75 (estimated)
Ages18 Years and up
SexAll
SponsorUniversity of Pennsylvania Academic / other
Locations1 site (Philadelphia, Pennsylvania)
Trial IDNCT06286397 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This randomized, double-blinded, placebo-controlled trial aims to evaluate the efficacy of clascoterone, a topical anti-androgen, in treating pilonidal disease. Participants will apply either clascoterone or a placebo cream to the affected area twice daily for 12 weeks. The study will assess changes in disease severity, patient symptoms, and inflammation through physician evaluations and patient surveys. Recruitment will occur at the University of Pennsylvania's colorectal surgery clinics, involving a thorough informed consent process and regular assessments throughout the study duration.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates are adults aged 18 and older diagnosed with pilonidal disease who can adhere to the treatment regimen.

Not a fit: Patients with asymptomatic disease, acute abscesses, or those who are pregnant will not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this treatment could significantly improve the management of pilonidal disease and enhance patient quality of life.

How similar studies have performed: While the use of topical anti-androgens is a novel approach for pilonidal disease, similar studies have shown promise in treating other skin conditions.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* Age 18 and above
* Diagnosis of Pilonidal Disease
* Willingness to comply with study procedures and availability for duration of study
* Ability to apply topical medications and willing to adhere to regimen

Exclusion Criteria:

* Current use of any topical medication to natal cleft
* Presence of pilonidal-associated abscess
* Pregnancy or lactation
* Allergic reaction to components of 1% clascoterone cream
* Febrile illness within 7 days
* Treatment with another investigational drug within three months

Where this trial is running

Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

Study contacts

How to participate

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.
Conditions Pilonidal DiseasePilonidal Disease of Natal CleftPilonidal SinusPilonidal CystClascoteroneAndrogen
Last reviewed 2026-06-09 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.