1
|
Paracha M, Wasim M, Noor SM, Khan AQ, Sagheer F, Ahmad I. Comparison of efficacy and safety of tofacitinib and azathioprine in patients with alopecia areata and variants: a double-blind, randomized controlled trial. Arch Dermatol Res 2024; 316:458. [PMID: 38967866 DOI: 10.1007/s00403-024-03203-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/29/2024] [Revised: 06/21/2024] [Accepted: 06/23/2024] [Indexed: 07/06/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Alopecia areata (AA) is an autoimmune pathology manifested by loss of hair. OBJECTIVE To evaluate and compare the efficacy and safety of tofacitinib and azathioprine in patients with AA and variants. METHODS In this double-blind randomized controlled trail (RCT) carried out at the Department of Dermatology, Medical Teaching Institute-Lady Reading Hospital (MTI-LRH), Peshawar, Pakistan, patients aged ≥ 12 years diagnosed with AA, alopecia totalis (AT) or alopecia universalis (AU) with minimum 50% scalp hair loss for a period ≥ 06 years were included. Patients were randomly assigned to receive oral tofacitinib 5 mg twice daily (Group I) or oral azathioprine 2 mg/kg body weight once daily (Group II). The primary endpoint was Severity of Alopecia Tool (SALT) score, evaluated at baseline and 06 months follow-up. Safety was consistently assessed during the study. RESULTS A total of 104 patients underwent random allocation into either the tofacitinib group (n = 52) or the azathioprine group (n = 52). The mean (SD) age of patients was 20.23 (7.14) years and 22.26 (8.07) years, while the mean (SD) disease duration was 6.59 (4.01) years and 7.98 (4.40) years in in Group I and II, respectively. Overall, 40 (38.5%) patients were adolescents while 70 (67.3%) were male. 52 (50%) had AA, 37 (35.5%) had AT and 15 (14.5%) had AU. Mean baseline SALT score in tofacitinib group was 91.02 ± 10.21 and azathioprine group was 91.02 ± 10.63, which at 06 months follow-up improved to 14.1 ± 24.6 and 63.9 ± 33.9, respectively (difference, 11.5 points; 95% confidence interval, 38.3-61.3, p < 0.0001). Overall, no major adverse effects and no difference among the minor adverse effects in the two groups (04 adverse events for tofacitinib group and 08 for azathioprine group: p = 0.23) was observed. CONCLUSIONS Efficacy of tofacitinib was significantly higher than azathioprine, whilst both drugs were well-tolerated in patients with AA and variants.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Majid Paracha
- Department of Dermatology, Medical Teaching Institute-Lady Reading Hospital (MTI-LRH), Peshawar, Pakistan.
| | - Muhammad Wasim
- Department of Dermatology, Medical Teaching Institute-Lady Reading Hospital (MTI-LRH), Peshawar, Pakistan.
| | - Sahibzada M Noor
- Department of Dermatology, Medical Teaching Institute-Lady Reading Hospital (MTI-LRH), Peshawar, Pakistan
| | - Abdul Q Khan
- Department of Dermatology, Medical Teaching Institute-Lady Reading Hospital (MTI-LRH), Peshawar, Pakistan
| | - Farah Sagheer
- Postgraduate Medical Institute, Hayatabad, Peshawar, Pakistan
| | - Iftikhar Ahmad
- Institute of Radiotherapy and Nuclear Medicine (IRNUM), Peshawar, Pakistan
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Mateos-Haro M, Novoa-Candia M, Sánchez Vanegas G, Correa-Pérez A, Gaetano Gil A, Fernández-García S, Ortega-Quijano D, Urueña Rodriguez MG, Saceda-Corralo D, Bennouna-Dalero T, Giraldo L, Tomlinson J, Vaño-Galván S, Zamora J. Treatments for alopecia areata: a network meta-analysis. Cochrane Database Syst Rev 2023; 10:CD013719. [PMID: 37870096 PMCID: PMC10591288 DOI: 10.1002/14651858.cd013719.pub2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/24/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Alopecia areata is an autoimmune disease leading to nonscarring hair loss on the scalp or body. There are different treatments including immunosuppressants, hair growth stimulants, and contact immunotherapy. OBJECTIVES To assess the benefits and harms of the treatments for alopecia areata (AA), alopecia totalis (AT), and alopecia universalis (AU) in children and adults. SEARCH METHODS The Cochrane Skin Specialised Register, CENTRAL, MEDLINE, Embase, ClinicalTrials.gov and WHO ICTRP were searched up to July 2022. SELECTION CRITERIA We included randomised controlled trials (RCTs) that evaluated classical immunosuppressants, biologics, small molecule inhibitors, contact immunotherapy, hair growth stimulants, and other therapies in paediatric and adult populations with AA. DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS We used the standard procedures expected by Cochrane including assessment of risks of bias using RoB2 and the certainty of the evidence using GRADE. The primary outcomes were short-term hair regrowth ≥ 75% (between 12 and 26 weeks of follow-up), and incidence of serious adverse events. The secondary outcomes were long-term hair regrowth ≥ 75% (greater than 26 weeks of follow-up) and health-related quality of life. We could not perform a network meta-analysis as very few trials compared the same treatments. We presented direct comparisons and made a narrative description of the findings. MAIN RESULTS We included 63 studies that tested 47 different treatments in 4817 randomised participants. All trials used a parallel-group design except one that used a cross-over design. The mean sample size was 78 participants. All trials recruited outpatients from dermatology clinics. Participants were between 2 and 74 years old. The trials included patients with AA (n = 25), AT (n = 1), AU (n = 1), mixed cases (n = 31), and unclear types of alopecia (n = 4). Thirty-three out of 63 studies (52.3%) reported the proportion of participants achieving short-term hair regrowth ≥ 75% (between 12 and 26 weeks). Forty-seven studies (74.6%) reported serious adverse events and only one study (1.5%) reported health-related quality of life. Five studies (7.9%) reported the proportion of participants with long-term hair regrowth ≥ 75% (greater than 26 weeks). Amongst the variety of interventions found, we prioritised some groups of interventions for their relevance to clinical practice: systemic therapies (classical immunosuppressants, biologics, and small molecule inhibitors), and local therapies (intralesional corticosteroids, topical small molecule inhibitors, contact immunotherapy, hair growth stimulants and cryotherapy). Considering only the prioritised interventions, 14 studies from 12 comparisons reported short-term hair regrowth ≥ 75% and 22 studies from 10 comparisons reported serious adverse events (18 reported zero events and 4 reported at least one). One study (1 comparison) reported quality of life, and two studies (1 comparison) reported long-term hair regrowth ≥ 75%. For the main outcome of short-term hair regrowth ≥ 75%, the evidence is very uncertain about the effect of oral prednisolone or cyclosporine versus placebo (RR 4.68, 95% CI 0.57 to 38.27; 79 participants; 2 studies; very low-certainty evidence), intralesional betamethasone or triamcinolone versus placebo (RR 13.84, 95% CI 0.87 to 219.76; 231 participants; 1 study; very low-certainty evidence), oral ruxolitinib versus oral tofacitinib (RR 1.08, 95% CI 0.77 to 1.52; 80 participants; 1 study; very low-certainty evidence), diphencyprone or squaric acid dibutil ester versus placebo (RR 1.16, 95% CI 0.79 to 1.71; 99 participants; 1 study; very-low-certainty evidence), diphencyprone or squaric acid dibutyl ester versus topical minoxidil (RR 1.16, 95% CI 0.79 to 1.71; 99 participants; 1 study; very low-certainty evidence), diphencyprone plus topical minoxidil versus diphencyprone (RR 0.67, 95% CI 0.13 to 3.44; 30 participants; 1 study; very low-certainty evidence), topical minoxidil 1% and 2% versus placebo (RR 2.31, 95% CI 1.34 to 3.96; 202 participants; 2 studies; very low-certainty evidence) and cryotherapy versus fractional CO2 laser (RR 0.31, 95% CI 0.11 to 0.86; 80 participants; 1 study; very low-certainty evidence). The evidence suggests oral betamethasone may increase short-term hair regrowth ≥ 75% compared to prednisolone or azathioprine (RR 1.67, 95% CI 0.96 to 2.88; 80 participants; 2 studies; low-certainty evidence). There may be little to no difference between subcutaneous dupilumab and placebo in short-term hair regrowth ≥ 75% (RR 3.59, 95% CI 0.19 to 66.22; 60 participants; 1 study; low-certainty evidence) as well as between topical ruxolitinib and placebo (RR 5.00, 95% CI 0.25 to 100.89; 78 participants; 1 study; low-certainty evidence). However, baricitinib results in an increase in short-term hair regrowth ≥ 75% when compared to placebo (RR 7.54, 95% CI 3.90 to 14.58; 1200 participants; 2 studies; high-certainty evidence). For the incidence of serious adverse events, the evidence is very uncertain about the effect of topical ruxolitinib versus placebo (RR 0.33, 95% CI 0.01 to 7.94; 78 participants; 1 study; very low-certainty evidence). Baricitinib and apremilast may result in little to no difference in the incidence of serious adverse events versus placebo (RR 1.47, 95% CI 0.60 to 3.60; 1224 participants; 3 studies; low-certainty evidence). The same result is observed for subcutaneous dupilumab compared to placebo (RR 1.54, 95% CI 0.07 to 36.11; 60 participants; 1 study; low-certainty evidence). For health-related quality of life, the evidence is very uncertain about the effect of oral cyclosporine compared to placebo (MD 0.01, 95% CI -0.04 to 0.07; very low-certainty evidence). Baricitinib results in an increase in long-term hair regrowth ≥ 75% compared to placebo (RR 8.49, 95% CI 4.70 to 15.34; 1200 participants; 2 studies; high-certainty evidence). Regarding the risk of bias, the most relevant issues were the lack of details about randomisation and allocation concealment, the limited efforts to keep patients and assessors unaware of the assigned intervention, and losses to follow-up. AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS We found that treatment with baricitinib results in an increase in short- and long-term hair regrowth compared to placebo. Although we found inconclusive results for the risk of serious adverse effects with baricitinib, the reported small incidence of serious adverse events in the baricitinib arm should be balanced with the expected benefits. We also found that the impact of other treatments on hair regrowth is very uncertain. Evidence for health-related quality of life is still scant.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Miriam Mateos-Haro
- Clinical Biostatistics Unit, Hospital Universitario Ramón y Cajal (IRYCIS), Madrid, Spain
- Doctoral programme in Clinical Medicine and Public Health, Universidad de Granada, Granada, Spain
| | - Monica Novoa-Candia
- Paediatric Dermatology Department, Hospital San Jose-Fundación Universitaria de Ciencias de la Salud-FUCS, Bogotá, Colombia
| | | | - Andrea Correa-Pérez
- Clinical Biostatistics Unit, Hospital Universitario Ramón y Cajal (IRYCIS), Madrid, Spain
- Faculty of Medicine, Universidad Francisco de Vitoria, Madrid, Spain
| | - Andrea Gaetano Gil
- Clinical Biostatistics Unit, Hospital Universitario Ramón y Cajal (IRYCIS), Madrid, Spain
| | - Silvia Fernández-García
- WHO Collaborating Centre for Global Women's Health, Institute of Metabolism and Systems Research, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
| | | | | | | | - Tayeb Bennouna-Dalero
- Preventive Medicine and Public Health Department, Hospital Universitario Ramón y Cajal, IRYCIS, Madrid, Spain
| | - Lucia Giraldo
- Paediatric Dermatology Department, Hospital San Jose-Fundación Universitaria de Ciencias de la Salud-FUCS, Bogotá, Colombia
| | | | - Sergio Vaño-Galván
- Department of Dermatology, Hospital Universitario Ramón y Cajal, Madrid, Spain
| | - Javier Zamora
- Institute of Metabolism and Systems Research, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
- Clinical Biostatistics Unit, Hospital Universitario Ramón y Cajal (IRYCIS). CIBER Epidemiology and Public Health (CIBERESP), Madrid, Spain
- Cochrane Associate Centre of Madrid, Madrid, Spain
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Al Hammadi A, Parmar NV, Aljefri K, Al Sharif O, Abdallah M, Ahmed HM, Ammoury A. Review on Alopecia Areata in the Middle East and Africa: Landscape and Unmet Needs. Dermatol Ther (Heidelb) 2023:10.1007/s13555-023-00946-8. [PMID: 37338721 DOI: 10.1007/s13555-023-00946-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/20/2023] [Accepted: 05/24/2023] [Indexed: 06/21/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Alopecia areata (AA) is an autoimmune disease characterized by non-scarring hair loss in adults and children. Clinical manifestations range from hair loss in small, well-circumscribed patches to total hair loss on the scalp or any other hair-bearing areas. Although the exact pathogenesis of AA is not fully understood, it is thought that loss of immune privilege caused by immunological dysregulation of the hair follicle is key. Genetic susceptibility also plays a role. Response to currently available treatments is widely variable, causing patient dissatisfaction and creating an unmet need. AA is frequently associated with multiple comorbidities, further affecting patient quality of life. AIMS AND FINDINGS AA causes a significant burden on dermatologists and healthcare systems in the Middle East and Africa. There is a lack of data registries, local consensus, and treatment guidelines in the region. Limited public awareness, availability of treatments, and patient support need to be addressed to improve disease management in the region. A literature review was conducted to identify relevant publications and highlight regional data on prevalence rates, diagnosis, quality of life, treatment modalities, and unmet needs for AA in the Middle East and Africa.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Nisha V Parmar
- Department of Dermatology, Rashid Hospital, Dubai Health Authority, Dubai, UAE
| | | | - Osama Al Sharif
- King Fahad General Hospital, Medina, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
| | | | | | - Alfred Ammoury
- Division of Dermatology, St George University Medical Center, Beirut, Lebanon
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Park H, Kim JE, Choi JW, Kim DY, Jang YH, Lee Y, Jeon J, Shin HT, Kim MS, Shin JW, Cho SB, Lew BL, Choi GS. Guidelines for the Management of Patients with Alopecia Areata in Korea: Part II Systemic Treatment. Ann Dermatol 2023; 35:205-216. [PMID: 37290954 DOI: 10.5021/ad.22.167] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/13/2022] [Revised: 12/17/2022] [Accepted: 01/24/2023] [Indexed: 06/10/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Alopecia areata (AA) is a chronic disease with an unpredictable course and can have a severe psychological impact on an individual. OBJECTIVE To provide evidence and consensus-based statements regarding the treatment of patients with AA in Korea. METHODS We searched for relevant studies from inception to May 2021 regarding the systemic treatment of AA. Evidence-based recommendations were also prepared. The evidence for each statement was graded and classified according to the strength of the recommendations. Hair experts from the Korean Hair Research Society (KHRS) voted on the statement, and an agreement of 75% or greater was considered as having reached consensus. RESULTS Current evidence supports the efficacy of systemic corticosteroids, oral cyclosporine monotherapy or combination with systemic corticosteroids, and oral Janus kinase inhibitors in severe AA patients. Systemic steroids may be considered for pediatric patients with severe AA. A consensus was achieved in three out of nine (33.3%), and one out of three (33.3%) statements pertaining to systemic treatment in adult and pediatric AA, respectively. CONCLUSION The present study produced up-to-date, evidence-based treatment guidelines for AA associated with the consensus obtained by experts based on the Korean healthcare system.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hyunsun Park
- Department of Dermatology, SMG-SNU Boramae Medical Center, Seoul, Korea
| | - Jung Eun Kim
- Department of Dermatology, College of Medicine, The Catholic University of Korea, Seoul, Korea
| | - Jee Woong Choi
- Department of Dermatology, Ajou University School of Medicine, Suwon, Korea
| | - Do Young Kim
- Department of Dermatology, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Yong Hyun Jang
- Department of Dermatology, School of Medicine, Kyungpook National University, Daegu, Korea
| | - Young Lee
- Department of Dermatology, School of Medicine, Chungnam National University, Daejeon, Korea
| | - Jiehyun Jeon
- Department of Dermatology, Guro Hospital, Korea University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Hyun-Tae Shin
- Department of Dermatology, Inha University School of Medicine, Incheon, Korea
| | - Min Sung Kim
- Department of Dermatology, School of Medicine, Chosun University, Gwangju, Korea
| | - Jung Won Shin
- Department of Dermatology, Seoul National University Bundang Hospital, Bundang, Korea
| | - Sung Bin Cho
- Yonsei Seran Dermatology and Laser Clinic, Seoul, Korea
| | - Bark-Lynn Lew
- Department of Dermatology, Kyung Hee University School of Medicine, Seoul, Korea.
| | - Gwang Seong Choi
- Department of Dermatology, Inha University School of Medicine, Incheon, Korea
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Cohen B, Cadesky A, Jaggi S. Dermatologic manifestations of thyroid disease: a literature review. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2023; 14:1167890. [PMID: 37251685 PMCID: PMC10214500 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2023.1167890] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/16/2023] [Accepted: 04/07/2023] [Indexed: 05/31/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction Thyroid hormone is considered one of the key regulatory hormones for skin homeostasis. Multiple organs are affected by the release of peripheral thyroid hormones (T4 and T3) further regulating various functions at a cellular level. Specifically, skin is considered an important target organ in which the thyroid hormone has a significant impact. Multiple skin diseases are associated with thyroid hormone dysregulation. However, other striking dermatologic manifestations are seen in nails and hair as well. Hypothyroidism, hyperthyroidism, and thyroid cancer can have an array of cutaneous manifestations, and we present the recent updates in this field. Methods A PubMed search was performed for updates in any new skin disease findings and treatments between 2010 and 2022. Research published in the past decade and previously known foundational skin findings associated with thyroid disease were presented in this review. Conclusion Cutaneous manifestations of thyroid disease is one of the first notable signs of thyroid hormone dysregulation. This article reviews the recent updates on the thyroid and skin interplay, and it further discusses overt visible findings and various available treatment modalities.
Collapse
|
6
|
Velásquez-Lopera MM, Hernández N, Jansen AM, García AL, Luna PC, Rico-Restrepo M, del Mar Saez-de-Ocariz M, Tamayo-Buendía MM, Rivitti-Machado MC. Alopecia Areata in Latin America: Where are We and Where are We Going? Dermatol Ther (Heidelb) 2022; 13:95-114. [PMID: 36527577 PMCID: PMC9758465 DOI: 10.1007/s13555-022-00845-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/08/2022] [Accepted: 10/25/2022] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Alopecia areata (AA) represents an underrecognized burden in Latin America (LA), severely impacting quality of life (QoL). This impact is exacerbated by limited access to specialized dermatologic care and therapies for AA within and among nations. Many of the unmet needs for AA globally also exist in LA. The region has geographic, ethnic, cultural, and economic conditions. With new AA medicines targeting immunologic pathways on the horizon, LA must prepare regarding regulatory issues, reimbursement, awareness, and education to give adequate and timely treatment for patients with AA. To address these issues, the Americas Health Foundation convened a panel of six dermatologists from Argentina, Brazil, Colombia, and Mexico who are experts in AA and its comorbidities for a 3-day virtual meeting to discuss AA diagnosis and treatment in LA and create a manuscript offering recommendations to address discussed barriers. This publication examines unmet AA needs in LA, treatment, and innovative therapies and recommends improving AA care. Access constraints to conventional and novel medicines hinder appropriate treatments for patients. Therapy initiation delays can affect QoL, mental health, and disease progression. People with AA face stigmas, discrimination, and misconceptions owing to a lack of disease awareness. With promising new treatments for AA on the horizon, all stakeholders must coordinate efforts to enhance LA's AA management landscape and improve patient outcomes.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Margarita M. Velásquez-Lopera
- Centro de Investigaciones Dermatológicas CIDERM, Sección de Dermatología, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de Antioquia, Cra. 51D # 62-29, Medellín, Colombia
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
7
|
Mahgoob RAS, Algamal EE, Elshahat OM, Almetwaly SA. Comparative study between the efficacies of azathioprine and mesalazine in the treatment of severe alopecia areata. J Cosmet Dermatol 2021; 21:3444-3450. [PMID: 34918459 DOI: 10.1111/jocd.14687] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/25/2021] [Revised: 11/22/2021] [Accepted: 11/30/2021] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Various systemic agents have been assessed for treatment of alopecia areata; however, there is a paucity of comparative studies. AIM To compare the efficacy of azathioprine versus mesalazine in the treatment of severe alopecia areata. METHODS Our study was carried out in 30 patients with severe alopecia areata divided into two groups, group A: fifteen patients were treated by azathioprine in an oral dose of 1-2 mg/kg/day and group B: fifteen patients were treated by mesalazine in an oral dose of 15-30 mg/kg/day in two divided doses. The treatment was considered effective if percentage regrowth of hair was determined by change in SALT score >50 from base line after 6 months of treatment. The treatment was continued for 3-6 months after complete remission to minimize the risk of relapse. The dose was gradually tapered during this time. RESULTS The study found that there is statistically significant difference between mean SALT scores before treatment and after 6 months of treatment in both groups. In group A, SALT score at base line was 84.42 ± 17.41, after 6 months it was 35.95 ± 35.79 (p value 0.04). In group B, SALT score at base line was 73.06 ± 22.10, after 6 months it was 23.04± 12.27 (p value 0.037). Changes in SALT score after 6 months were -27.74 ± 20.66 in group A and -60.42±38.41 in group B (p value 0.055). CONCLUSION Mesalazine may be considered as effective as azathioprine with lesser side effects. Azathioprine is also considered safe. However, a large group study should be performed to confirm these findings.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Randa Al Sayed Mahgoob
- Dermatology, Venereology and Andrology Department, Damietta Faculty of Medicine, Al-Azhar University, Egypt
| | - Emad Elddin Algamal
- Dermatology, Denereology and Andrology Department, Damitta, Faculty of Medicine, Al -Azhar University, Egypt
| | - Osama Magdy Elshahat
- Dermatology, Denereology and Andrology Department, Damitta, Faculty of Medicine, Al -Azhar University, Egypt
| | - Samir Atef Almetwaly
- Forensic medicin and Clinical toxicology Department, Damitta, Faculty of Medicine, Al -Azhar University, Egypt
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Asilian A, Fatemi F, Ganjei Z, Siadat AH, Mohaghegh F, Siavash M. Oral Pulse Betamethasone, Methotrexate, and Combination Therapy to Treat Severe Alopecia Areata: A Randomized, Double-blind, Placebo-controlled, Clinical Trial. IRANIAN JOURNAL OF PHARMACEUTICAL RESEARCH : IJPR 2021; 20:267-273. [PMID: 34400956 PMCID: PMC8170764 DOI: 10.22037/ijpr.2020.113868.14536] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
The purpose of this study is to compare oral betamethasone pulse therapy, methotrexate therapy and a combination of the two for patients with Alopecia Areata (AA) as an autoimmune disorder. In this study, 36 patients with severe AA were selected and classified into three groups of 12: 1- Oral betamethasone therapy (3 mg, once a week) with placebo; 2- Oral methotrexate (15 mg, once a week) with placebo; and 3- A combination of methotrexate (15 mg, once a week) and betamethasone (3 mg, once a week). The Severity Alopecia Tool (SALT) was used to measure improvements in the lesions through photographs, and the patients also rated their condition on the Visual Analogue Scale (VAS). Assessments were performed, and the results were compared at baseline and then at intervals of three months for nine months. The demographics and SALT score were similar in the three groups (P > 0.05). All the groups showed improvements in SALT, VAS and photographic scores three months after beginning the treatment (P < 0.001). Betamethasone therapy (P = 0.006) and combination therapy (P < 0.001) provided greater SALT improvement than methotrexate, and combination therapy led to a greater improvement in VAS and photographic findings compared to the two other groups (P < 0.05). Oral steroid, methotrexate and combination pulse therapy were effective treatments for AA, while oral steroid pulse therapy and combination therapy were superior to methotrexate.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ali Asilian
- Skin Diseases and Leishmaniasis Research Center, Department of Dermatology, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran
| | - Farahnaz Fatemi
- Skin Diseases and Leishmaniasis Research Center, Department of Dermatology, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran
| | - Zakiye Ganjei
- Skin Diseases and Leishmaniasis Research Center, Department of Dermatology, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran
| | - Amir Hossein Siadat
- Skin Diseases and Leishmaniasis Research Center, Department of Dermatology, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran
| | - Fatemeh Mohaghegh
- Skin Diseases and Leishmaniasis Research Center, Department of Dermatology, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran
| | - Mansour Siavash
- Endocrine and Metabolism Research Center, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Waśkiel‐Burnat A, Kołodziejak M, Sikora M, Stochmal A, Rakowska A, Olszewska M, Rudnicka L. Therapeutic management in paediatric alopecia areata: A systematic review. J Eur Acad Dermatol Venereol 2021; 35:1299-1308. [DOI: 10.1111/jdv.17187] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/24/2020] [Accepted: 02/04/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- A. Waśkiel‐Burnat
- Department of Dermatology Medical University of Warsaw Warsaw Poland
| | - M. Kołodziejak
- Department of Dermatology Medical University of Warsaw Warsaw Poland
| | - M. Sikora
- Department of Dermatology Medical University of Warsaw Warsaw Poland
| | - A. Stochmal
- Department of Dermatology Medical University of Warsaw Warsaw Poland
| | - A. Rakowska
- Department of Dermatology Medical University of Warsaw Warsaw Poland
| | - M. Olszewska
- Department of Dermatology Medical University of Warsaw Warsaw Poland
| | - L. Rudnicka
- Department of Dermatology Medical University of Warsaw Warsaw Poland
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Chavez-Alvarez S, Herz-Ruelas M, Villarreal-Martinez A, Ocampo-Candiani J, Garza-Garza R, Gomez-Flores M. Azathioprine: its uses in dermatology. An Bras Dermatol 2020; 95:731-736. [PMID: 33250113 PMCID: PMC7672387 DOI: 10.1016/j.abd.2020.05.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/13/2020] [Accepted: 05/19/2020] [Indexed: 01/19/2023] Open
Abstract
This is a narrative review of azathioprine. This medication is immunomodulatory and immunosuppressive, and it has been used widely through different medical specialties to modify disease. It has been proven useful for several dermatoses and it has encountered success when used as an off-label indication for other dermatologic diseases. Its mechanism of action is described thoroughly, as well as precautions for monitoring adequate levels in patients using it. Dermatologists should also be aware of the possible adverse events it may present. In dermatology it can be used in bullous and autoimmune diseases, and in other conditions, including intractable pruritus, atopic dermatitis, photodermatoses, psoriasis, and others. Azathioprine offers an alternative as a steroid-sparing agent and this review helps dermatologists prescribe it safely to all patients who require it.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sonia Chavez-Alvarez
- Department of Dermatology, University Hospital "Dr. José Eleuterio González", Universidad Autónoma de Nuevo León, Nuevo León, Mexico
| | - Maira Herz-Ruelas
- Department of Dermatology, University Hospital "Dr. José Eleuterio González", Universidad Autónoma de Nuevo León, Nuevo León, Mexico
| | - Alejandra Villarreal-Martinez
- Department of Dermatology, University Hospital "Dr. José Eleuterio González", Universidad Autónoma de Nuevo León, Nuevo León, Mexico
| | - Jorge Ocampo-Candiani
- Department of Dermatology, University Hospital "Dr. José Eleuterio González", Universidad Autónoma de Nuevo León, Nuevo León, Mexico
| | | | - Minerva Gomez-Flores
- Department of Dermatology, University Hospital "Dr. José Eleuterio González", Universidad Autónoma de Nuevo León, Nuevo León, Mexico.
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Ansari F, Singh S. Azathioprine in combination with methotrexate may not be a good therapeutic alternative in severe and recalcitrant forms of alopecia areata. J Eur Acad Dermatol Venereol 2020; 34:e814-e815. [DOI: 10.1111/jdv.16675] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/02/2020] [Accepted: 05/15/2020] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- F. Ansari
- Department of Dermatology, Venereology & Leprology All India Institute of Medical Sciences Jodhpur India
| | - S. Singh
- Department of Dermatology, Venereology & Leprology All India Institute of Medical Sciences Jodhpur India
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Novoa-Candia M, Sánchez Vanegas G, Arevalo-Rodriguez I, Vaño-Galván S, Urueña Rodriguez MG, Giraldo L, Saceda-Corralo D, Tobias A, Tomlinson J, Ortega-Quijano D, Zamora J. Treatments for alopecia areata: a network meta-analysis. Hippokratia 2020. [DOI: 10.1002/14651858.cd013719] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Monica Novoa-Candia
- Paediatric Dermatology Department; Hospital San Jose-Fundación Universitaria de Ciencias de la Salud-FUCS; Bogotá Colombia
| | | | - Ingrid Arevalo-Rodriguez
- Clinical Biostatistics Unit; Hospital Universitario Ramón y Cajal (IRYCIS). CIBER Epidemiology and Public Health (CIBERESP); Madrid Spain
- Centro Asociado Cochrane de Ecuador; Centro de Investigación de Salud Pública y Epidemiología Clínica (CISPEC). Facultad de Ciencias de la Salud Eugenio Espejo, Universidad UTE; Quito Ecuador
| | | | | | - Lucia Giraldo
- Paediatric Dermatology Department; Hospital San Jose-Fundación Universitaria de Ciencias de la Salud-FUCS; Bogotá Colombia
| | | | - Aurelio Tobias
- Tommy’s National Centre for Miscarriage Research, Institute of Metabolism and Systems Research; University of Birmingham; Birmingham UK
| | | | | | - Javier Zamora
- Clinical Biostatistics Unit; Hospital Universitario Ramón y Cajal (IRYCIS). CIBER Epidemiology and Public Health (CIBERESP); Madrid Spain
- Women’s Health Research Unit, Centre for Primary Care and Public Health; Queen Mary University of London; London UK
- Cochrane Associate Centre of Madrid; Madrid Spain
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Lai V, Sinclair R. Utility of azathioprine, methotrexate and cyclosporine as steroid‐sparing agents in chronic alopecia areata: a retrospective study of continuation rates in 138 patients. J Eur Acad Dermatol Venereol 2020; 34:2606-2612. [DOI: 10.1111/jdv.16858] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/11/2020] [Accepted: 07/28/2020] [Indexed: 01/02/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- V.W.Y. Lai
- Department of Medicine Alfred Hospital Melbourne Vic. Australia
| | - R. Sinclair
- Sinclair Dermatology East Melbourne Vic. Australia
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Kridin K, Renert-Yuval Y, Guttman-Yassky E, Cohen AD. Alopecia Areata Is Associated with Atopic Diathesis: Results from a Population-Based Study of 51,561 Patients. THE JOURNAL OF ALLERGY AND CLINICAL IMMUNOLOGY-IN PRACTICE 2020; 8:1323-1328.e1. [PMID: 32036002 DOI: 10.1016/j.jaip.2020.01.052] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/24/2019] [Revised: 01/03/2020] [Accepted: 01/08/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Evidence of TH1/IFN-γ overactivation as a major pathogenic driver somewhat conflicts with data supporting robust allergic background in patients with alopecia areata (AA). Previous investigations of immunological dysregulations show that both TH1- and TH2-related markers are overexpressed in AA. Clinical correlations in large populations may shed light on the immune pathways most likely to result in the clinical phenotype of AA. OBJECTIVE To investigate the atopic comorbidities among patients with AA in a large population-based study. METHODS This is a cross-sectional retrospective study of patients with AA and a matched comparison group, analyzing the associations between AA and 4 atopic comorbidities: asthma, atopic dermatitis (AD), allergic rhinitis, and allergic conjunctivitis. χ2 and t tests were used for univariate analysis, and logistic regression model was used for multivariate analysis. The study was performed using the computerized database of the Clalit Health Services, encompassing more than 4.4 million subjects. RESULTS The study population included 51,561 patients with AA and 51,410 matched control subjects. The prevalence of asthma (7.8% vs 6.5%; odds ratio [OR], 1.22; 95% CI, 1.17-1.28; P < .001), AD (3.9% vs 2.6%; OR, 1.55; 95% CI, 1.44-1.66; P < .001), allergic rhinitis (16.0% vs 12.8%; OR, 1.29; 95% CI, 1.25-1.34; P < .001), and allergic conjunctivitis (23.5% vs 19.6%; OR, 1.27; 95% CI, 1.23-1.30; P < .001) was significantly higher among patients with AA as compared with matched control subjects. Patients with AA also had a significantly higher probability of having more than 1 atopic comorbidity, with increasing OR as the number of concomitant atopic conditions increased. CONCLUSIONS Our analysis supports the previous literature and provides strong generalizability of significant atopy in patients with AA, suggesting TH2 pathogenicity in AA, and challenging the traditional view of AA as a single-axis, TH1-centered disease.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Khalaf Kridin
- Department of Dermatology, Rambam Health Care Campus, Haifa, Israel.
| | - Yael Renert-Yuval
- Laboratory for Investigative Dermatology, Rockefeller University, New York, NY
| | - Emma Guttman-Yassky
- Department of Dermatology and the Laboratory for Inflammatory Skin Diseases, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY
| | - Arnon D Cohen
- Siaal Research Center for Family Medicine and Primary Care, Faculty of Health Sciences, Ben-Gurion University of the Negev, Beer-Sheva, Israel
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Saoji V, Kulkarni S, Madke B. Alopecia Areata Treated with Oral Azathioprine: A Case Series. Int J Trichology 2019; 11:219-222. [PMID: 31728106 PMCID: PMC6830026 DOI: 10.4103/ijt.ijt_57_19] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Alopecia areata is commonly encountered non scarring alopecia with clinical presentations ranging from localised bald patches to extensive involvement. Clinical course is variable ranging from self limiting disease to chronic relapsing and recalcitrant disease. Topical and oral corticosteroids; nonetheless being front line agents for the treatment of alopecia areata;are not advocated for long term administration due to potentially undesirable systemic side effects. Hence the need of steroid sparing immunosuppresive agents like Azathioprine is warranted which have desired therapeutic action without much systemic adverse effects. We report a case series of 4 patients of alopecia areata treated with systemic azathioprine monotherapy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Vikrant Saoji
- Department of Dermatology, Venereology and Leprology, Datta Meghe Institute of Medical Sciences, Wardha, Maharashtra, India
| | - Sandeep Kulkarni
- Department of Dermatology, Venereology and Leprology, Datta Meghe Institute of Medical Sciences, Wardha, Maharashtra, India
| | - Bhushan Madke
- Department of Dermatology, Venereology and Leprology, Datta Meghe Institute of Medical Sciences, Wardha, Maharashtra, India
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
Rossi A, Muscianese M, Piraccini BM, Starace M, Carlesimo M, Mandel VD, Alessandrini A, Calvieri S, Caro G, D'arino A, Federico A, Magri F, Pigliacelli F, Amendolagine G, Annunziata MC, Arisi MC, Astorino S, Babino G, Bardazzi F, Barruscotti S, Belloni Fortina A, Borghi A, Bruni F, Caccavale S, Calzavara-Pinton P, Cameli N, Cardone M, Carugno A, Coppola R, Dattola A, De Felici Del Giudice MB, Di Cesare A, Dika E, Di Nunno D, D'ovidio R, Fabbrocini G, Feliciani C, Fulgione E, Galluzzo M, Garcovich S, Garelli V, Guerriero C, Hansel K, La Placa M, Lacarrubba F, Lora V, Marinello E, Megna M, Micali G, Misciali C, Monari P, Monfrecola G, Neri I, Offidani A, Orlando G, Papini M, Patrizi A, Piaserico S, Rivetti N, Simonetti O, Stan TR, Stingeni L, Talamonti M, Tassone F, Villa L, Vincenzi C, Fortuna MC. Italian Guidelines in diagnosis and treatment of alopecia areata. GIORN ITAL DERMAT V 2019; 154:609-623. [PMID: 31578836 DOI: 10.23736/s0392-0488.19.06458-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Alopecia areata (AA) is an organ-specific autoimmune disorder that targets anagen phase hair follicles. The course is unpredictable and current available treatments have variable efficacy. Nowadays, there is relatively little evidence on treatment of AA from well-designed clinical trials. Moreover, none of the treatments or devices commonly used to treat AA are specifically approved by the Food and Drug Administration. The Italian Study Group for Cutaneous Annexial Disease of the Italian Society of dermatology proposes these Italian guidelines for diagnosis and treatment of Alopecia Areata deeming useful for the daily management of the disease. This article summarizes evidence-based treatment associated with expert-based recommendations.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Alfredo Rossi
- Division of Dermatology, Department of Internal Medicine and Medical Specialties, Sapienza University, Rome, Italy -
| | - Marta Muscianese
- Division of Dermatology, Department of Internal Medicine and Medical Specialties, Sapienza University, Rome, Italy
| | - Bianca M Piraccini
- Division of Dermatology, Department of Experimental, Diagnostic and Specialty Medicine, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Michela Starace
- Division of Dermatology, Department of Experimental, Diagnostic and Specialty Medicine, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Marta Carlesimo
- Division of Dermatology, Department of Internal Medicine and Medical Specialties, Sapienza University, Rome, Italy
| | - Victor D Mandel
- Unit of Dermatology, Surgical, Medical and Dental Department of Morphological Sciences Related to Transplant, Oncology and Regenerative Medicine, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
| | - Aurora Alessandrini
- Division of Dermatology, Department of Experimental, Diagnostic and Specialty Medicine, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Stefano Calvieri
- Division of Dermatology, Department of Internal Medicine and Medical Specialties, Sapienza University, Rome, Italy
| | - Gemma Caro
- Division of Dermatology, Department of Internal Medicine and Medical Specialties, Sapienza University, Rome, Italy
| | - Andrea D'arino
- Division of Dermatology, Department of Internal Medicine and Medical Specialties, Sapienza University, Rome, Italy
| | - Alessandro Federico
- Division of Dermatology, Department of Internal Medicine and Medical Specialties, Sapienza University, Rome, Italy
| | - Francesca Magri
- Division of Dermatology, Department of Internal Medicine and Medical Specialties, Sapienza University, Rome, Italy
| | - Flavia Pigliacelli
- Division of Dermatology, Department of Internal Medicine and Medical Specialties, Sapienza University, Rome, Italy
| | - Graziana Amendolagine
- Section of Dermatology and Infectious Diseases, Department of Medical Sciences, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Maria C Annunziata
- Section of Dermatology, Department of Clinical Medicine and Surgery, Federico II University, Naples, Italy
| | - Maria C Arisi
- Department of Dermatology, ASST Spedali Civili of Brescia, University of Brescia, Brescia, Italy
| | - Stefano Astorino
- Unit of Dermatology and Venereology, Celio Military Hospital, Rome, Italy
| | - Graziella Babino
- Unit of Dermatology, Nuovo Policlinico, Luigi Vanvitelli University of Campania, Naples, Italy
| | - Federico Bardazzi
- Division of Dermatology, Department of Experimental, Diagnostic and Specialty Medicine, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Stefania Barruscotti
- Unit of Dermatology, S. Matteo University Polyclinic, IRCCS and Foundation, Pavia, Italy
| | - Anna Belloni Fortina
- Unit of Dermatology, Department of Medicine - DIMED, University of Padua, Padua, Italy
| | - Alessandro Borghi
- Section of Dermatology and Infectious Diseases, Department of Medical Sciences, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Francesca Bruni
- Division of Dermatology, Department of Experimental, Diagnostic and Specialty Medicine, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Stefano Caccavale
- Unit of Dermatology, Nuovo Policlinico, Luigi Vanvitelli University of Campania, Naples, Italy
| | | | - Norma Cameli
- San Gallicano Dermatological Institute (IRCCS), Rome, Italy
| | - Michele Cardone
- Division of Dermatology, Department of Internal Medicine and Medical Specialties, Sapienza University, Rome, Italy
| | - Andrea Carugno
- Unit of Dermatology, S. Matteo University Polyclinic, IRCCS and Foundation, Pavia, Italy
| | - Rosa Coppola
- Campus Bio-Medico University (Hospital), Rome, Italy
| | - Annunziata Dattola
- Department of Dermatology, Tor Vergata Polyclinic and University, Rome, Italy
| | | | - Antonella Di Cesare
- Section of Dermatology, Department of Surgery and Translational Medicine, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - Emi Dika
- Division of Dermatology, Department of Experimental, Diagnostic and Specialty Medicine, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Donato Di Nunno
- Unit of Dermatology and Venereology, Celio Military Hospital, Rome, Italy
| | | | - Gabriella Fabbrocini
- Section of Dermatology, Department of Clinical Medicine and Surgery, Federico II University, Naples, Italy
| | - Claudio Feliciani
- Section of Dermatology, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Parma, Parma, Italy
| | - Elisabetta Fulgione
- Unit of Dermatology, Nuovo Policlinico, Luigi Vanvitelli University of Campania, Naples, Italy
| | - Marco Galluzzo
- Department of Dermatology, Tor Vergata Polyclinic and University, Rome, Italy
| | - Simone Garcovich
- Institute of Dermatology, A. Gemelli University Polyclinic, IRCCS and Foundation, Sacred Heart Carholic University, Rome, Italy
| | - Valentina Garelli
- Division of Dermatology, Department of Internal Medicine and Medical Specialties, Sapienza University, Rome, Italy
| | - Cristina Guerriero
- Institute of Dermatology, A. Gemelli University Polyclinic, IRCCS and Foundation, Sacred Heart Carholic University, Rome, Italy
| | - Katharina Hansel
- Section of Dermatology, Department of Medicine, University of Perugia, Perugia, Italy
| | - Michelangelo La Placa
- Division of Dermatology, Department of Experimental, Diagnostic and Specialty Medicine, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | | | - Viviana Lora
- Institute of Dermatology, A. Gemelli University Polyclinic, IRCCS and Foundation, Sacred Heart Carholic University, Rome, Italy
| | - Elena Marinello
- Unit of Dermatology, Department of Medicine - DIMED, University of Padua, Padua, Italy
| | - Matteo Megna
- Section of Dermatology, Department of Clinical Medicine and Surgery, Federico II University, Naples, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Micali
- Department of Dermatology, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Cosimo Misciali
- Division of Dermatology, Department of Experimental, Diagnostic and Specialty Medicine, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Paola Monari
- Department of Dermatology, ASST Spedali Civili of Brescia, University of Brescia, Brescia, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Monfrecola
- Section of Dermatology, Department of Clinical Medicine and Surgery, Federico II University, Naples, Italy
| | - Iria Neri
- Division of Dermatology, Department of Experimental, Diagnostic and Specialty Medicine, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Annamaria Offidani
- Unit of Dermatology, Department of Clinical and Molecular Sciences, Polytechnic Marche University, Ancona, Italy
| | - Gloria Orlando
- Unit of Dermatology, Department of Medicine - DIMED, University of Padua, Padua, Italy
| | - Manuela Papini
- Section of Dermatology, Department of Medicine, University of Perugia, Perugia, Italy
| | - Annalisa Patrizi
- Division of Dermatology, Department of Experimental, Diagnostic and Specialty Medicine, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Stefano Piaserico
- Unit of Dermatology, Department of Medicine - DIMED, University of Padua, Padua, Italy
| | - Niccolò Rivetti
- Unit of Dermatology, S. Matteo University Polyclinic, IRCCS and Foundation, Pavia, Italy
| | - Oriana Simonetti
- Unit of Dermatology, Department of Clinical and Molecular Sciences, Polytechnic Marche University, Ancona, Italy
| | - Teodora R Stan
- Unit of Dermatology, Department of Medicine - DIMED, University of Padua, Padua, Italy
| | - Luca Stingeni
- Section of Dermatology, Department of Medicine, University of Perugia, Perugia, Italy
| | - Marina Talamonti
- Department of Dermatology, Tor Vergata Polyclinic and University, Rome, Italy
| | - Francesco Tassone
- Institute of Dermatology, A. Gemelli University Polyclinic, IRCCS and Foundation, Sacred Heart Carholic University, Rome, Italy
| | | | - Colombina Vincenzi
- Division of Dermatology, Department of Experimental, Diagnostic and Specialty Medicine, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Maria C Fortuna
- Division of Dermatology, Department of Internal Medicine and Medical Specialties, Sapienza University, Rome, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
17
|
Mascia P, Milpied B, Darrigade AS, Seneschal J, Eyraud A, Bonamonte D, Taïeb A. Azathioprine in combination with methotrexate: a therapeutic alternative in severe and recalcitrant forms of alopecia areata? J Eur Acad Dermatol Venereol 2019; 33:e494-e495. [PMID: 31374131 DOI: 10.1111/jdv.15834] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- P Mascia
- Department of Biomedical Science and Human Oncology, Section of Dermatology, University of Bari, Bari, Italy
| | - B Milpied
- Department of Dermatology and Pediatric Dermatology, National Centre for Rare skin Disorders, Hôpital Pellegrin-Enfants, CHU de Bordeaux, Bordeaux, France
| | - A S Darrigade
- Department of Dermatology and Pediatric Dermatology, National Centre for Rare skin Disorders, Hôpital Pellegrin-Enfants, CHU de Bordeaux, Bordeaux, France
| | - J Seneschal
- Department of Dermatology and Pediatric Dermatology, National Centre for Rare skin Disorders, Hôpital Pellegrin-Enfants, CHU de Bordeaux, Bordeaux, France
| | - A Eyraud
- Department of Dermatology and Pediatric Dermatology, National Centre for Rare skin Disorders, Hôpital Pellegrin-Enfants, CHU de Bordeaux, Bordeaux, France
| | - D Bonamonte
- Department of Biomedical Science and Human Oncology, Section of Dermatology, University of Bari, Bari, Italy
| | - A Taïeb
- Department of Dermatology and Pediatric Dermatology, National Centre for Rare skin Disorders, Hôpital Pellegrin-Enfants, CHU de Bordeaux, Bordeaux, France
| |
Collapse
|
18
|
Gupta P, Verma KK, Khandpur S, Bhari N. Weekly Azathioprine Pulse versus Betamethasone Oral Mini-Pulse in the Treatment of Moderate-to-Severe Alopecia Areata. Indian J Dermatol 2019; 64:292-298. [PMID: 31516138 PMCID: PMC6714202 DOI: 10.4103/ijd.ijd_481_16] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Corticosteroids are the most common agents used in the treatment of alopecia areata (AA), however, their long-term use is associated with severe side effects. Therefore, other immunosuppressive agents have been tried and azathioprine appears to be an effective and promising alternative. Objective: The main objective of this study was to compare the efficacy of 300 mg once weekly azathioprine pulse (WAP) and 5 mg betamethasone on 2 consecutive days every week in the management of AA. Materials and Methods: In this open-label, randomized comparative study, 50 patients of AA with >10% scalp area involvement were treated with either 300 mg WAP or 5 mg betamethasone on 2 consecutive days every week for 4 months or till complete scalp hair regrowth and followed up for next 5 months. Primary efficacy parameters were average percentage scalp hair regrowth and change in average Severity of Alopecia Tool (SALT) score at 4 months. Results: Twenty patients in WAP group and 21 patients in betamethasone group completed the study. The median percent scalp hair regrowth and the median change in SALT score was 44.52 and 9.5 in WAP group compared to 71.43 and 14 in betamethasone group at 4-month, respectively, which were statistically similar in two groups, however, side effects were significantly higher in betamethasone group. On further follow-up at 9 months, 10 (50%) patients in WAP group and 13 (62%) patients in betamethasone group achieved complete hair regrowth. Lack of control group was a limitation of our study. Conclusion: WAP and betamethasone therapy, both appear to be effective in the treatment of AA. However, betamethasone caused several side effects; therefore, WAP can be used as a better alternative to corticosteroids in AA.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Prashant Gupta
- Department of Dermatology and Venereology, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, New Delhi, India
| | - Kaushal K Verma
- Department of Dermatology and Venereology, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, New Delhi, India
| | - Sujay Khandpur
- Department of Dermatology and Venereology, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, New Delhi, India
| | - Neetu Bhari
- Department of Dermatology and Venereology, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, New Delhi, India
| |
Collapse
|
19
|
Thandar Y, Maharajh R, Haffejee F, Mosam A. Treatment of cutaneous lichen planus (part 2): a review of systemic therapies. J DERMATOL TREAT 2018; 30:633-647. [DOI: 10.1080/09546634.2018.1544411] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/15/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Yasmeen Thandar
- Faculty of Heath Sciences, Department of Basic Medical Sciences, Durban University of Technology, Durban, South Africa
| | - Rivesh Maharajh
- Faculty of Heath Sciences, Department of Basic Medical Sciences, Durban University of Technology, Durban, South Africa
| | - Firoza Haffejee
- Faculty of Heath Sciences, Department of Basic Medical Sciences, Durban University of Technology, Durban, South Africa
| | - Anisa Mosam
- Department of Dermatology, University of KwaZulu-Natal and Nelson Mandela School of Medicine, Durban, South Africa
| |
Collapse
|
20
|
Mikhaylov D, Pavel A, Yao C, Kimmel G, Nia J, Hashim P, Vekaria AS, Taliercio M, Singer G, Karalekas R, Baum D, Mansouri Y, Lebwohl MG, Guttman-Yassky E. A randomized placebo-controlled single-center pilot study of the safety and efficacy of apremilast in subjects with moderate-to-severe alopecia areata. Arch Dermatol Res 2018; 311:29-36. [PMID: 30417279 DOI: 10.1007/s00403-018-1876-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/20/2018] [Revised: 10/29/2018] [Accepted: 11/05/2018] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Alopecia areata (AA) is a common autoimmune disease that results in non-scarring hair loss. AA pathogenesis is thought to involve multiple inflammatory cytokines. Apremilast is a phosphodiesterase 4 (PDE4) inhibitor that reduces pro-inflammatory cytokine production. Recent studies demonstrate upregulation of PDE4 in human scalp lesions of AA patients and hair regrowth in a humanized AA mouse model upon apremilast treatment, suggesting a possible potential of apremilast in AA. To assess the efficacy and safety of apremilast in AA, we conducted a double-blind, placebo-controlled single-center pilot study in 30 moderate-to-severe AA patients (≥ 50% scalp involvement) that were randomized 2:1 to receive apremilast (n = 20) or placebo (n = 10) orally for 24 weeks. The primary endpoint was the percentage of patients achieving 50% reduction in severity of alopecia tool (SALT) score (SALT50) at 24 weeks compared to baseline, and the secondary endpoints included the percent change in SALT score at weeks 24 and 48. Eight patients in the apremilast arm withdrew prior to week 24 along with two patients in the placebo group, mostly due to lack of efficacy and adverse events. At 24 weeks, only 1 of 12 apremilast-treated subjects achieved SALT50, and similarly 1 of 8 placebo-treated subjects achieved SALT50. The difference between the mean percent improvement in SALT score at week 24 compared to baseline of the two study arms was not statistically significant (p = 0.38). The lack of treatment response in most of our patients argues against a pathogenic role for PDE4 specifically in moderate-to-severe AA, but targeting this pathway may still be of value in patients with mild AA as there is less of an inflammatory burden in this population. However, future larger studies may be needed to conclude apremilast's lack of efficacy in moderate-to-severe AA.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Daniela Mikhaylov
- Department of Dermatology, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA
| | - Ana Pavel
- Department of Dermatology, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA
| | - Christopher Yao
- Department of Dermatology, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA
| | - Grace Kimmel
- Department of Dermatology, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA
| | - John Nia
- Department of Dermatology, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA
| | - Peter Hashim
- Department of Dermatology, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA
| | - Anjali S Vekaria
- Department of Dermatology, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA
| | - Mark Taliercio
- Department of Dermatology, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA
| | - Giselle Singer
- Department of Dermatology, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA
| | - Rachel Karalekas
- Department of Dermatology, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA
| | - Danielle Baum
- Department of Dermatology, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA
| | - Yasaman Mansouri
- Department of Dermatology, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA
| | - Mark G Lebwohl
- Department of Dermatology, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA
| | - Emma Guttman-Yassky
- Department of Dermatology, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA. .,Department of Dermatology and the Immunology Institute, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA. .,Laboratory for Investigative Dermatology, Rockefeller University, New York, NY, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
21
|
Shohdy KS, Rashad W, Elmeligui A. Alopecia Universalis Associated with Ulcerative Colitis and The Role of Azathioprine. Middle East J Dig Dis 2018; 10:50-54. [PMID: 29682249 PMCID: PMC5903929 DOI: 10.15171/mejdd.2017.91] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/09/2017] [Accepted: 09/01/2017] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Skin manifestations can herald, co-exist, or follow the evolution of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). We report a middle-aged man with recent onset alopecia universalis and a history of intermittent diarrheal attacks for 6 years. Colonscopy and biopsy sampling confirmed ulcerative colitis. Regrowth of hair was achieved by treating the patient with azathioprine and mesalamine. Clinicians have to be aware that a multitude of skin manifestations with history of diarrhea can be an extraintestinal manifestation of IBD such as ulcerative colitis and this warrants further investigation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kyrillus S Shohdy
- Internal Medicine Department, Faculty of Medicine, Cairo University, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Wegdan Rashad
- Internal Medicine Department, Faculty of Medicine, Cairo University, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Ahmed Elmeligui
- Internal Medicine Department, Faculty of Medicine, Cairo University, Cairo, Egypt
| |
Collapse
|
22
|
Abstract
Alopecia areata (AA), a prevalent inflammatory cause of hair loss, lacks FDA-approved therapeutics for extensive cases, which are associated with very poor rates of spontaneous hair regrowth and major psychological distress. Current treatments for severe cases include broad immune-suppressants, which are associated with significant adverse effects, precluding long-term use, with rapid hair loss following treatment termination. As a result of the extent of the disease in severe cases, topical contact sensitizers and intralesional treatments are of limited use. The pathogenesis of AA is not yet fully understood, but recent investigations of the immune activation in AA skin reveal Th1/IFN-γ, as well as Th2, PDE4, IL-23, and IL-9 upregulations. Tissue analyses of both animal models and human lesions following broad-acting and cytokine-specific therapeutics (such as JAK inhibitors and ustekinumab, respectively) provide another opportunity for important insights into the pathogenesis of AA. As reviewed in this paper, numerous novel therapeutics are undergoing clinical trials for AA, emphasizing the potential transformation of the clinical practice of AA, which is currently lacking. Dermatologists are already familiar with the revolution in disease management of psoriasis, stemming from better understanding of immune dysregulations, and atopic dermatitis will soon follow a similar path. In light of these recent developments, the therapeutic arena of AA treatments is finally getting more exciting. AA will join the lengthening list of dermatologic diseases with mechanism-targeted drugs, thus changing the face of AA.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yael Renert-Yuval
- Department of Dermatology, Hadassah-Hebrew University Medical Center, Jerusalem, Israel
| | - Emma Guttman-Yassky
- Department of Dermatology and the Laboratory for Inflammatory Skin Diseases, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
23
|
Affiliation(s)
- Solam Lee
- Department of Dermatology; Institute of Hair and Cosmetic Medicine; Yonsei University Wonju College of Medicine; Wonju Korea
| | - Won-Soo Lee
- Department of Dermatology; Institute of Hair and Cosmetic Medicine; Yonsei University Wonju College of Medicine; Wonju Korea
| |
Collapse
|
24
|
Lim SK, Lim CA, Kwon IS, Im M, Seo YJ, Kim CD, Lee JH, Lee Y. Low-Dose Systemic Methotrexate Therapy for Recalcitrant Alopecia Areata. Ann Dermatol 2017; 29:263-267. [PMID: 28566900 PMCID: PMC5438930 DOI: 10.5021/ad.2017.29.3.263] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/16/2016] [Revised: 07/07/2016] [Accepted: 08/08/2016] [Indexed: 12/03/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Alopecia areata (AA) is an autoimmune skin disease difficult to manage and treat. The pathogenesis of AA features a T-cell-associated autoimmune process, and systemic immunosuppressive therapy is prescribed widely for AA. Objective To evaluate the efficacy and tolerance of systemic low-dose methotrexate (LD-MTX) therapy in treatment of recalcitrant AA multiplex. Methods In a retrospective, non-controlled study, we evaluated 29 patients with recalcitrant AA treated with LD-MTX and assessed the therapeutic response according to severity of disease, disease duration, cumulative dose of MTX, and drug safety. Results MTX was administered twice weekly, and the mean maximum weekly dose was 14.48 mg. The response was A5 (regrowth=100.0%) in 14 (48.3%) patients and A4 (regrowth of 75%~90%) in 12 (41.4%) patients. Three patients had poor response to LD-MTX treatment (A2: n=2 [6.9%], A1: n=1 [3.4%]). All three of the patients showing a poor response had disease durations exceeding 24 months. Relapse was observed in 31% of patients with more than 75% regrowth. Common side-effects were elevated liver enzyme levels and gastrointestinal discomfort. Conclusion LD-MTX appears to be an effective and well-tolerated treatment for recalcitrant AA multiplex.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Seul-Ki Lim
- Department of Dermatology, Chungnam National University School of Medicine, Daejeon, Korea
| | - Cho-Ah Lim
- Department of Dermatology, Chungnam National University School of Medicine, Daejeon, Korea
| | - In Sun Kwon
- Clinical Trials Center, Chungnam National University Hospital, Daejeon, Korea
| | - Myung Im
- Department of Dermatology, Chungnam National University School of Medicine, Daejeon, Korea
| | - Young-Joon Seo
- Department of Dermatology, Chungnam National University School of Medicine, Daejeon, Korea
| | - Chang-Deok Kim
- Department of Dermatology, Chungnam National University School of Medicine, Daejeon, Korea
| | - Jeung-Hoon Lee
- Department of Dermatology, Chungnam National University School of Medicine, Daejeon, Korea
| | - Young Lee
- Department of Dermatology, Chungnam National University School of Medicine, Daejeon, Korea
| |
Collapse
|
25
|
Kassira S, Korta DZ, Chapman LW, Dann F. Review of treatment for alopecia totalis and alopecia universalis. Int J Dermatol 2017; 56:801-810. [PMID: 28378336 DOI: 10.1111/ijd.13612] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/04/2016] [Revised: 02/25/2017] [Accepted: 02/25/2017] [Indexed: 01/13/2023]
Abstract
Alopecia areata (AA) is an autoimmune disease directed at the hair follicle. Although usually limited to patchy hair loss over the scalp (focalis), AA can present as total loss of scalp hair (totalis; AT) or as total loss of both scalp and body hair (universalis; AU). Management of AT and AU can be challenging, and although multiple treatment modalities have been explored, no therapy is currently FDA-approved. This review focuses on the evidence for current treatment options for AT and AU. The PubMed database was searched from January 1, 2000, to September 1, 2016, for clinical trials, retrospective studies, and case reports of treatments for AT and AU. A total of 40 studies were retrieved and analyzed. Therapies studied for AT/AU included: topical immunotherapy, steroids, photodynamic therapy, immunosuppressive agents, TNFα inhibitors, and other therapies, such as sulfasalazine, bexarotene, JAK inhibitors, and simvastatin/ezetimibe. Although certain treatments showed significant hair regrowth, no treatment was completely effective. The most promising therapies with the highest quality data include diphenylcyclopropenone, squaric acid dibutylester, photodynamic therapy, steroids, and cyclosporine in combination with methylprednisolone. High-quality randomized-controlled trials with large sample sizes are lacking. Unified outcome guidelines are encouraged to facilitate the comparison of future studies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sama Kassira
- School of Medicine, University of Alabama, Birmingham, AL, USA
| | - Dorota Z Korta
- Department of Dermatology, University of California Irvine, Irvine, CA, USA
| | - Lance W Chapman
- Department of Dermatology, University of California Irvine, Irvine, CA, USA
| | - Francis Dann
- Department of Dermatology, University of California Irvine, Irvine, CA, USA
| |
Collapse
|
26
|
Vañó-Galván S, Fernández-Crehuet P, Grimalt R, Garcia-Hernandez M, Rodrigues-Barata R, Arias-Santiago S, Molina-Ruiz A, Garcia-Lora E, Dominguez-Cruz J, Brugues A, Ferrando J, Serrano-Falcón C, Serrano S, Paoli J, Camacho F. Alopecia areata totalis and universalis: a multicenter review of 132 patients in Spain. J Eur Acad Dermatol Venereol 2016; 31:550-556. [DOI: 10.1111/jdv.13959] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/20/2016] [Accepted: 08/05/2016] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- S. Vañó-Galván
- Dermatology Service; Trichology Unit; Ramon y Cajal Hospital; IRYCIS; University of Alcala; Madrid Spain
| | - P. Fernández-Crehuet
- Dermatology Service; Hospital Universitario Reina Sofía; Instituto Maimónides de Investigación Biomédica (IMIBIC); Córdoba Spain
| | - R. Grimalt
- Universitat Internacional de Catalunya; Barcelona Spain
| | | | | | - S. Arias-Santiago
- Unidad de Gestión Clínica de Dermatología Médico-Quirúrgica y Venereología; Hospital Universitario Virgen de las Nieves; Granada Spain
| | | | - E. Garcia-Lora
- Dermatology Department; Hospital Virgen de las Nieves-Granada; Madrid Spain
| | | | | | | | | | - S. Serrano
- Dermatology Department; Universidad de Granada; Granada Spain
| | - J. Paoli
- Department of Dermatology and Venereology; Sahlgrenska University Hospital; Institute of Clinical Sciences at the Sahlgrenska Academy; University of Gothenburg; Gothenburg Sweden
| | | |
Collapse
|
27
|
Extraintestinal manifestations of Crohn's disease. GASTROENTEROLOGY REVIEW 2016; 11:218-221. [PMID: 27713787 PMCID: PMC5047972 DOI: 10.5114/pg.2016.61439] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/27/2015] [Accepted: 09/21/2015] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
|
28
|
Renert-Yuval Y, Guttman-Yassky E. A novel therapeutic paradigm for patients with extensive alopecia areata. Expert Opin Biol Ther 2016; 16:1005-14. [DOI: 10.1080/14712598.2016.1188076] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
|
29
|
Vañó-Galván S, Hermosa-Gelbard Á, Sánchez-Neila N, Miguel-Gómez L, Saceda-Corralo D, Rodrigues-Barata R, Jaén P. Treatment of recalcitrant adult alopecia areata universalis with oral azathioprine. J Am Acad Dermatol 2016; 74:1007-8. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jaad.2015.12.055] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/03/2015] [Revised: 12/19/2015] [Accepted: 12/20/2015] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
|
30
|
|
31
|
New aspects of the treatment of alopecia areata. Postepy Dermatol Alergol 2014; 31:262-5. [PMID: 25254012 PMCID: PMC4171667 DOI: 10.5114/pdia.2014.40923] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/06/2013] [Revised: 07/10/2013] [Accepted: 08/20/2013] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Alopecia areata (AA) is a disease involving non-scarring hair loss determined by autoimmune disorders and inflammation. The disease affects hair on the scalp and/or other parts of the body. The AA occurs in people of all ages and affects 1–2% of humans. The purpose of this paper is to present the latest knowledge on the treatment of AA. The decision on the type of treatment depends on the type of hair loss, extent of changes, general health status, the patient's age, and his/her motivation. Treatment methods should be chosen individually for each patient.
Collapse
|
32
|
|
33
|
|
34
|
|
35
|
Abstract
Alopecia areata (AA) is a non-scarring autoimmune disease of the hair follicle that can present at any age. Pediatric cases are commonly seen in a dermatology clinic, and management can potentially be challenging, with a small proportion of cases experiencing a chronic relapsing course marked by distressing hair loss that can bring about significant psychosocial morbidity. We review the established treatments for pediatric alopecia areata, alongside second and third line therapies that have shown to be efficacious. We also offer a treatment algorithm as a guide to the treatment of pediatric AA.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Etienne Wang
- National Skin Centre, 1 Mandalay Road, Singapore
| | | | | |
Collapse
|
36
|
Affiliation(s)
- Amos Gilhar
- Flieman Hospital, and B. Rappaport Faculty of Medicine, Technion-Israel Institute of Technology, Haifa, Israel.
| | | | | |
Collapse
|
37
|
Abstract
Many therapeutic modalities have been used to treat alopecia areata, with variable efficacy and safety profiles. Unfortunately, none of these agents is curative or preventive. Also, many of these therapeutic agents have not been subjected to randomized, controlled trials, and, except for topical immunotherapy, there are few published studies on long-term outcomes. The treatment plan is designed according to the patient's age and extent of disease. In this paper, the therapeutic agents are organized according to their efficacy and safety profiles into first-line, second-line, and third-line options.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Adel Alsantali
- Department of Dermatology, King Fahd Armed Forces Hospital, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
| |
Collapse
|
38
|
|