Clinical trial Recruiting at 1 site Phase 2 Interventional Ages 18 and up

Testing a topical treatment for pilonidal disease

Official title: Topical Anti-Androgens in Pilonidal Sinus Disease

Run by University of Pennsylvania · NCT06286397 · Data updated 2026-11-12

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
Ages18 Years and up
SexAll
Enrollment75 (estimated)
SponsorUniversity of Pennsylvania
Academic / other
Locations1 site (Philadelphia, Pennsylvania)
StatusRecruiting
StartedJanuary 10, 2025
Main results expectedJanuary 1, 2028
Study endsJanuary 1, 2028
Registry record updatedFebruary 27, 2026
Trial IDNCT06286397 on ClinicalTrials.gov

Is this trial a fit for you?

Likely a good fit

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

Probably not a fit

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

A plain-English reading of the study's rules. Only the study team can confirm whether you qualify.

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.

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

Who can join: the full rules

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 it's running

  • University of Pennsylvania
    Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, United States
    Recruiting

Study contacts

Similar studies

Other studies for the same condition or treatment. Recruiting studies are listed first.

How to take part

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Check the official listing on ClinicalTrials.gov for the latest contact details and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the study coordinator or principal investigator to ask for pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.
Last reviewed 2026-11-14 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.