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Westerkam LL, McShane DB, Nieman EL, Morrell DS. Treatment Options for Alopecia Areata in Children and Adolescents. Paediatr Drugs 2024; 26:245-257. [PMID: 38466519 DOI: 10.1007/s40272-024-00620-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 02/11/2024] [Indexed: 03/13/2024]
Abstract
Alopecia areata (AA) lifetime incidence is around 2%, with many patients first experiencing symptoms during childhood. However, ritlecitinib is the only FDA-approved treatment for pediatric patients 12 years and older. This review outlines reported topical, injectable, and oral treatment options for pediatric patients with AA. Clinical studies were obtained via a PubMed search using the following search terms: alopecia areata, areata, universalis, or totalis and medication, therapy, treatment, drug, or management. Only studies with pediatric patients were included in this review. Commonly used therapies, including corticosteroids, methotrexate, and minoxidil, newer promising medications, such as Janus kinase inhibitors, and less frequently used topical and systemic treatments are included. A summary of the drug development pipeline and ongoing interventional clinical trials with pediatric patients is provided. Treatments demonstrate variable efficacy, and many patients require combination therapy for maximal response. More robust clinical data is needed for many of the medications reviewed in order to provide better care for these patients.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Diana B McShane
- Department of Dermatology, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | - Elizabeth L Nieman
- Department of Dermatology, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | - Dean S Morrell
- Department of Dermatology, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
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2
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Rastaghi F, Kaveh R, Yazdanpanah N, Sahaf AS, Ahramyanpour N. The Efficacy and Adverse Effects of Corticosteroid Pulse Therapy in Alopecia Areata: A Review Article. Dermatol Pract Concept 2023; 13:dpc.1304a255. [PMID: 37992355 PMCID: PMC10656135 DOI: 10.5826/dpc.1304a255] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 05/10/2023] [Indexed: 11/24/2023] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Alopecia areata (AA) is a common, non-scarring, autoimmune hair loss disorder, varying in severity from small round hairless patches to the total loss of scalp or body hair. As steroid pulse therapy outcomes for AA vary, this study aimed to review the related literature regarding the efficacy, relapse rates, side effects, and prognostic factors associated with the response to different pulse corticosteroid treatments. METHODS We performed a literature search on August 29, 2022, to provide an overview of the efficacy of pulse steroid therapy in patients with AA. The terms "pulse steroid therapy AND alopecia areata" and "pulse corticosteroid therapy AND alopecia areata" were searched on PubMed and Google Scholar. RESULTS A total of 24 articles were assessed. There was no difference in outcomes and side effects between intravenous and oral pulse corticosteroid therapy. The relapse rate and efficacy depended on the time of AA onset, age, and AA type: improved outcomes and decreased relapse were linked with recent onset (<6 months), a younger age (<10 years), and the multifocal type of AA. Patients with a past medical history of atopy, nail pitting, or thyroid disease and those with severe forms of AA like alopecia totalis and alopecia universalis had the least improvement. CONCLUSIONS All kinds of mentioned systemic pulse corticosteroids effectively induce hair regrowth in AA. Betamethasone pulse seems to be the most effective agent (followed by intramuscular triamcinolone), especially in severe cases, but more side effects may accompany it. Combining this agent with other medications can reduce the dosage and side effects. Pulses of prednisolone and methylprednisolone are less effective but safer, as they have low relapse rates and adverse effects. A combination of them with other drugs can increase their efficacy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fatemeh Rastaghi
- Department of Dermatology, Afzalipour Hospital, Afzalipour Faculty of Medicine, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran
| | - Roxana Kaveh
- Student Research Committee, School of Medicine, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran
| | - Nazafarin Yazdanpanah
- Department of Dermatology, School of Medicine, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Akram Sadat Sahaf
- Department of Dermatology, Shahid Sadoughi University of Medical Sciences, Yazd, Iran
| | - Najmeh Ahramyanpour
- Department of Dermatology, Afzalipour Hospital, Afzalipour Faculty of Medicine, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran
- Pathology and Stem Cell Research Center, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran
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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.
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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
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Chen YC, Lu HA, Yang CC. Three monthly doses of corticosteroid pulse therapy yields a satisfactory but temporary response in severe alopecia areata patients. DERMATOL SIN 2022. [DOI: 10.4103/1027-8117.357355] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/04/2022] Open
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5
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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
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Barton VR, Toussi A, Awasthi S, Kiuru M. Treatment of pediatric alopecia areata: A systematic review. J Am Acad Dermatol 2021; 86:1318-1334. [PMID: 33940103 PMCID: PMC8556406 DOI: 10.1016/j.jaad.2021.04.077] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/02/2020] [Revised: 04/13/2021] [Accepted: 04/21/2021] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
Background: Alopecia areata (AA) is an autoimmune, nonscarring hair loss disorder with slightly greater prevalence in children than adults. Various treatment modalities exist; however, their evidence in pediatric AA patients is lacking. Objective: To evaluate the evidence of current treatment modalities for pediatric AA. Methods: We conducted a systematic review on the PubMed database in October 2019 for all published articles involving patients <18 years old. Articles discussing AA treatment in pediatric patients were included, as were articles discussing both pediatric and adult patients, if data on individual pediatric patients were available. Results: Inclusion criteria were met by 122 total reports discussing 1032 patients. Reports consisted of 2 randomized controlled trials, 4 prospective comparative cohorts, 83 case series, 2 case-control studies, and 31 case reports. Included articles assessed the use of aloe, apremilast, anthralin, anti-interferon gamma antibodies, botulinum toxin, corticosteroids, contact immunotherapies, cryotherapy, hydroxychloroquine, hypnotherapy, imiquimod, Janus kinase inhibitors, laser and light therapy, methotrexate, minoxidil, phototherapy, psychotherapy, prostaglandin analogs, sulfasalazine, topical calcineurin inhibitors, topical nitrogen mustard, and ustekinumab. Limitations: English-only articles with full texts were used. Manuscripts with adult and pediatric data were only incorporated if individual-level data for pediatric patients were provided. No meta-analysis was performed. Conclusion: Topical corticosteroids are the preferred first-line treatment for pediatric AA, as they hold the highest level of evidence, followed by contact immunotherapy. More clinical trials and comparative studies are needed to further guide management of pediatric AA and to promote the potential use of pre-existing, low-cost, and novel therapies, including Janus kinase inhibitors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Virginia R Barton
- Department of Dermatology, University of California Davis, Sacramento, California
| | - Atrin Toussi
- Department of Dermatology, University of California Davis, Sacramento, California
| | - Smita Awasthi
- Department of Dermatology, University of California Davis, Sacramento, California; Department of Pediatrics, University of California Davis, Sacramento, California
| | - Maija Kiuru
- Department of Dermatology, University of California Davis, Sacramento, California; Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, University of California Davis, Sacramento, California.
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Sato Y, Kinoshita-Ise M, Fukuyama M, Yamazaki Y, Ohyama M. Development of a scoring system to predict outcomes of i.v. corticosteroid pulse therapy in rapidly progressive alopecia areata adopting digital image analysis of hair recovery. J Dermatol 2020; 48:301-309. [PMID: 33245174 DOI: 10.1111/1346-8138.15675] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/03/2020] [Revised: 09/11/2020] [Accepted: 10/06/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Alopecia areata (AA) is a common autoimmune disease manifesting varying degrees of hair loss. Rapidly progressive AA (RP-AA) is a severe subtype of AA and often resistant to skin-directed treatments. i.v. corticosteroid pulse therapy has been applied for RP-AA; however, the treatment outcome can only become evaluable several months after the intervention, discomposing the patients. In this study, we attempted to develop a scoring system to predict treatment outcomes based on statistical correlations between newly identified predictors and the recovery rates calculated by digital image analysis. Thirty RP-AA patients (15 men and 15 women) who underwent pulse therapy and demonstrated total hair loss during the clinical course were included. The percentages of hair regrowth (%HR) at 6 months after the treatment were quantitatively calculated by image analysis software. The correlation between %HR and clinicopathological and immunological variables were statistically assessed. The analysis identified four confirmatory contributors including female sex (P = 0.015), absence of previous AA history (P = 0.02), lower peripheral blood eosinophil count (P = 0.02) and mild to moderate cell infiltration around the hair bulb (P = 0.034), together with a potential contributor, namely absence of atopic dermatitis in their medical history (P = 0.08). The scoring system was developed by double counting confirmatory variables and single counting a potential variable. Importantly, the scores obtained by this system demonstrated significant correlation with %HR (r = 0.61, P < 0.001). The usefulness of this scoring system was further validated by assessing additional 20 cases of RP-AA. When combined with a recently published algorithm for early detection of self-healing subset, the current scoring system may help strategize the therapeutic approach for RP-AA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yohei Sato
- Department of Dermatology, Kyorin University Faculty of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| | | | - Masahiro Fukuyama
- Department of Dermatology, Kyorin University Faculty of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Yoshimi Yamazaki
- Department of Dermatology, Kyorin University Faculty of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Manabu Ohyama
- Department of Dermatology, Kyorin University Faculty of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
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Hon KL, Luk DCK, Leung AKC, Ng C, Loo SKF. Childhood Alopecia Areata: An Overview of Treatment and Recent Patents. RECENT PATENTS ON INFLAMMATION & ALLERGY DRUG DISCOVERY 2020; 14:117-132. [PMID: 32723274 DOI: 10.2174/1872213x14999200728145822] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/06/2020] [Revised: 06/14/2020] [Accepted: 07/23/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Alopecia Areata (AA) is a systemic autoimmune condition that usually starts in childhood. OBJECTIVE This article aims to review genetics, therapy, prognosis, and recent patents for AA. METHODS We used clinical queries and keywords "alopecia areata" AND "childhood" as a search engine. Patents were searched using the key term "alopecia areata" in Patents.google.com and freepatentsonline. com. RESULTS Due to an immune-mediated damage to the hair follicles, hair is lost from the scalp and other areas of the body temporarily or even permanently. Children with AA are generally healthy. Evidence of genetic association and increased predisposition for AA was found by studying families with affected members. Pathophysiologically, T- lymphocytes attack hair follicles and cause inflammation and destruction of the hair follicles and hair loss. In mild cases, there would be well-demarcated round patchy scalp hair loss. The pathognomonic "exclamation mark hairs" may be seen at the lesion periphery. In more severe cases, the hair loss may affect the whole scalp and even the whole body. The clinical course is also variable, which may range from transient episodes of recurrent patchy hair loss to an indolent gradually deteriorating severe hair loss. The treatment of AA depends on factors including patients' age, the extent of the hair loss, duration of disease, psychological impact, availability and side effect profile of the treatments. For localized patchy alopecia, topical application of corticosteroids and/or intralesional corticosteroids are the treatment of choice. Other topical treatments include minoxidil, anthralin, coal tar and immunotherapy. In severe resistant cases, systemic immunosuppressants may be considered. Although herbal medicine, acupuncture, complementary and alternative medicine may be tried on children in some Asian communities, the evidence to support these practices is lacking. To date, only a few recent patents exist in topical treatments, including Il-31, laser and herbal medications. Clinical efficacy is pending for these treatment modalities. CONCLUSION None of the established therapeutic options are curative. However, newer treatment modalities, including excimer laser, interleukin-31 antibodies and biologics, are evolving so that there may be significant advances in treatment in the near future. AA can be psychosocially devastating. It is important to assess the quality of life, degree of anxiety, social phobia and mood of the patients and their families. Psychological support is imperative for those who are adversely affected psychosocially.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kam L Hon
- Department of Paediatrics, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Prince of Wales Hospital, Shatin, Hong Kong
| | - David C K Luk
- Department of Paediatrics and Adolescent Medicine, United Christian Hospital, Kwun Tong, Hong Kong
| | - Alexander K C Leung
- Department of Pediatrics, The University of Calgary and The Alberta Children's Hospital, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
| | - Chantel Ng
- Department of Paediatrics, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Prince of Wales Hospital, Shatin, Hong Kong
| | - Steven K F Loo
- Hong Kong Institute of Integrative Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, Hong Kong
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Lalosevic J, Gajic-Veljic M, Bonaci-Nikolic B, Stojkovic Lalosevic M, Nikolic M. Combined intravenous pulse and topical corticosteroid therapy for severe alopecia areata in children: Comparison of two regimens. Dermatol Ther 2019; 32:e13092. [PMID: 31579982 DOI: 10.1111/dth.13092] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/20/2019] [Revised: 09/13/2019] [Accepted: 09/20/2019] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
There is no universally accepted treatment for severe pediatric alopecia areata (AA). This prospective study comprised 73 patients (aged 1-18 years) with severe AA (>30% of scalp surface area): 37 received 1-day intravenous dexamethasone pulses (1-DP) and 36 received 3-day pulses (3-DP), monthly, for 6-12 months. Also, all patients applied topical clobetasol propionate under plastic wrap occlusion. Patients achieving >50% regrowth were considered good responders (GR). All patients reached short term, while 65/73 were available for the long-term follow-up (mean 33.3 ± 15.3 vs. 27.7 ± 14.3 months, 1-DP and 3-DP, respectively). Relapses during therapy were more frequent in 1-DP group. 3-DP patients were more frequently GR in comparison with 1-DP. 3-DP patients with disease duration <6 months had better outcomes. Patients without Hashimoto thyroiditis (HT) had 9.8-fold higher chance of being GR in comparison with HT patients. The best results were achieved in AA plurifocalis (AAP). No patient had severe short-term side-effects. At the long-term follow-up, 67% of 3-DP patients had stable results. Only 14.2% AAP patients experienced relapses. Patients had no long-term side-effects. 3-DP were more efficacious than 1-DP. Short disease duration and no HT were good prognostic factors. 3-DP protocol is well-tolerated, with beneficial effects and long-lasting results in severe pediatric AA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jovan Lalosevic
- Division of Pediatric Dermatology, Clinic of Dermatovenereology, Clinical Center of Serbia, Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Mirjana Gajic-Veljic
- Division of Pediatric Dermatology, Clinic of Dermatovenereology, Clinical Center of Serbia, Belgrade, Serbia.,University of Belgrade, School of Medicine, Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Branka Bonaci-Nikolic
- University of Belgrade, School of Medicine, Belgrade, Serbia.,Clinic of Allergy and Immunology, Clinical Center of Serbia, Belgrade, Serbia
| | | | - Milos Nikolic
- Division of Pediatric Dermatology, Clinic of Dermatovenereology, Clinical Center of Serbia, Belgrade, Serbia.,University of Belgrade, School of Medicine, Belgrade, Serbia
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10
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Fujii H, Endo Y, Dainichi T, Otsuka A, Fujisawa A, Tanioka M, Miyachi Y, Kabashima K. Predictive factors of response to pulse methylprednisolone therapy in patients with alopecia areata: A follow-up study of 105 Japanese patients. J Dermatol 2019; 46:522-525. [PMID: 30969434 DOI: 10.1111/1346-8138.14871] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/27/2018] [Accepted: 03/06/2019] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
Pulse corticosteroid therapy is effective for alopecia areata (AA) in the early stage. The risk and efficacy of this therapy for patients with several backgrounds, however, remains controversial. To explore the predictive factors of the response and risk factors of this therapy, data from 105 AA patients treated with methylprednisolone (500 mg) i.v. for 3 days consecutively in our facility were retrospectively analyzed. Among good responders, longer time from the onset to therapy was correlated with longer time required for hair regrowth (P = 0.037, n = 27). Multivariate models demonstrated that "severity", "relapse" and longer "duration from the latest onset" were significantly and independently associated with poorer outcome (P < 0.01). "History of atopic dermatitis (AD)" was also associated with poorer outcome, but this correlation could be explained by the effect that duration from the latest onset of AA was longer among participants with AD. We propose that earlier initiation of pulse corticosteroid therapy is preferable for better outcome of AA, particularly among patients with AD. Clinicians should be mindful of the occurrence of mild adverse effects in the elderly patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hiroko Fujii
- Department of Dermatology, Shiga General Hospital, Shiga, Japan.,Department of Dermatology, Kyoto University Graduate School of Medicine, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Yuichiro Endo
- Department of Dermatology, Kyoto University Graduate School of Medicine, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Teruki Dainichi
- Department of Dermatology, Kyoto University Graduate School of Medicine, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Atsushi Otsuka
- Department of Dermatology, Kyoto University Graduate School of Medicine, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Akihiro Fujisawa
- Department of Dermatology, Kyoto University Graduate School of Medicine, Kyoto, Japan.,Fujisawa Dermatology Clinic, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Miki Tanioka
- Department of Dermatology, Kyoto University Graduate School of Medicine, Kyoto, Japan.,Tanioka Dermatology Clinic, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Yoshiki Miyachi
- Department of Dermatology, Shiga General Hospital, Shiga, Japan.,Department of Dermatology, Kyoto University Graduate School of Medicine, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Kenji Kabashima
- Department of Dermatology, Kyoto University Graduate School of Medicine, Kyoto, Japan.,Singapore Immunology Network (SIgN) and Institute of Medical Biology, Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A*STAR), Biopolis, Singapore City, Singapore
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11
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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.
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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
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12
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Fukuyama M, Sato Y, Kinoshita-Ise M, Yamazaki Y, Ohyama M. Chronological clinicopathological characterization of rapidly progressive alopecia areata resistant to multiple i.v. corticosteroid pulse therapies: An implication for improving the efficacy. J Dermatol 2018; 45:1071-1079. [PMID: 29963718 DOI: 10.1111/1346-8138.14535] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/18/2018] [Accepted: 06/04/2018] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Intravenous corticosteroid pulse therapy (pulse therapy) has been reported to be effective for rapidly progressive alopecia areata (RP-AA). Mostly, a single 3-day administration of corticosteroid (methylprednisolone 500 mg/day) has been performed in Japan; however, to what extent additional administrations improve the outcome has not been fully elucidated. To assess the advantage of repeating the pulse therapy to RP-AA cases refractory to the initial intervention, retrospective clinicopathological analysis was performed. Detailed chronological analysis was conducted in eight cases (one man and seven women; average age, 38.3 ± 10.4 years) demonstrating total scalp hair loss 3 months after the first pulse therapy and treated with additional rounds of the pulse therapy. All cases manifested total hair loss, scalp edema, itch or pain on the scalp after the initial intervention. Histopathological analyses of affected lesions prior to additional pulse therapies revealed persisting dense perifollicular lymphocytic inflammation in all cases. Interestingly, such inflammatory change tended to be severer when compared with previously reported pulse therapy good responders. Extra pulse therapy resulted in partial regrowth of terminal hairs in three out of eight cases, but all of them experienced relapse in the long run. The literature review also suggested limited efficacy of repeating pulse therapy to severe AA cases. These findings suggested that the efficacy of currently conducted repetitive pulse therapy is limited in RP-AA cases with extensive perifollicular inflammation and resistant to the initial pulse therapy. Modulation of the dose and the interval of intervention, in combination with alternative approaches, may be required to achieve a successful outcome.
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Affiliation(s)
- Masahiro Fukuyama
- Department of Dermatology, Kyorin University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Yohei Sato
- Department of Dermatology, Kyorin University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| | | | - Yoshimi Yamazaki
- Department of Dermatology, Kyorin University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Manabu Ohyama
- Department of Dermatology, Kyorin University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
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13
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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.
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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
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Abstract
Alopecia areata (AA) is non-scarring hair loss resulting from an autoimmune disorder. Severity varies from patchy hair loss that often spontaneously resolves to severe and chronic cases that can progress to total loss of scalp and body hair. Many treatments are available; however, the efficacy of these treatments has not been confirmed, especially in severe cases, and relapse rates are high. First-line treatment often includes corticosteroids such as intralesional or topical steroids for mild cases and systemic steroids or topical immunotherapy with diphenylcyclopropenone or squaric acid dibutylester in severe cases. Minoxidil and bimatoprost may also be recommended, usually in combination with another treatment. Ongoing research and new insights into mechanisms have led to proposals of innovative therapies. New directions include biologics targeting immune response as well as lasers and autologous platelet-rich plasma therapy. Preliminary data are encouraging, and it is hoped this research will translate into new options for the treatment of AA in the near future.
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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
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16
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Yoshimasu T, Kanazawa N, Yamamoto Y, Furukawa F. Multiple courses of pulse corticosteroid therapy for alopecia areata. J Dermatol 2016; 43:1075-7. [PMID: 27095016 DOI: 10.1111/1346-8138.13388] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/21/2015] [Accepted: 02/21/2016] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Various systemic corticosteroid therapies are used for alopecia areata (AA). Pulse therapy using methylprednisolone is a treatment approach for AA. The efficacy of multiple courses of pulse therapy for various severities of AA was evaluated. AA patients with less than 50% hair loss, less than or equal to 6 months after AA onset, needed 1.9 courses of pulse therapy for vellus hair to develop. On the other hand, AA patients with more than 50% hair loss, less than 6 months after AA onset, needed more courses of pulse therapy for vellus hair to develop. Regardless of the disease duration, AA patients with less than 50% hair loss showed a good response rate (100%) after both a short period and a long period after therapy. After receiving multiple courses of pulse therapy, the AA patients with more than 50% hair loss also showed improvement with limited adverse reactions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Takashi Yoshimasu
- Department of Dermatology, Wakayama Medical University, Wakayama, Japan.,Department of Dermatology, Arida Municipal Hospital, Arida, Japan
| | - Nobuo Kanazawa
- Department of Dermatology, Wakayama Medical University, Wakayama, Japan
| | - Yuki Yamamoto
- Department of Dermatology, Wakayama Medical University, Wakayama, Japan
| | - Fukumi Furukawa
- Department of Dermatology, Wakayama Medical University, Wakayama, Japan
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Anuset D, Perceau G, Bernard P, Reguiai Z. Efficacy and Safety of Methotrexate Combined with Low- to Moderate-Dose Corticosteroids for Severe Alopecia Areata. Dermatology 2016; 232:242-8. [PMID: 26735937 DOI: 10.1159/000441250] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/23/2015] [Accepted: 09/17/2015] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND In severe alopecia areata (AA), spontaneous recovery is unlikely, and treatment is not standardized. OBJECTIVE To evaluate the efficacy and safety of methotrexate (MTX) used alone or combined with low- to moderate-dose oral corticosteroids (OC) for treating severe AA (totalis, universalis and severe multifocal). METHODS Retrospective monocentric study of all consecutive patients receiving this treatment between 2006 and 2012. Efficacy was defined as achieving a total regrowth of terminal hair. RESULTS 26 patients were included (17 with AA universalis or totalis and 9 with severe multifocal AA). Total regrowth was noted in 15/26 patients. After 3 months of treatment, hair regrowth >80% was associated with further complete regrowth, and hair regrowth <30% was associated with later treatment failure (p = 0.0014). When treatment was tapered, 11/15 patients with initial complete efficacy experienced AA relapse. CONCLUSION MTX combined with low- to moderate-dose OC may be an efficient and well-tolerated treatment for severe AA. However, long-term maintenance treatment is usually required.
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Affiliation(s)
- Delphine Anuset
- Department of Dermatology, Reims University Hospital, Reims, France
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18
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Yeo IK, Ko EJ, No YA, Lim ES, Park KY, Li K, Kim BJ, Seo SJ, Kim MN, Hong CK. Comparison of High-Dose Corticosteroid Pulse Therapy and Combination Therapy Using Oral Cyclosporine with Low-Dose Corticosteroid in Severe Alopecia Areata. Ann Dermatol 2015; 27:676-81. [PMID: 26719635 PMCID: PMC4695418 DOI: 10.5021/ad.2015.27.6.676] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2014] [Revised: 03/19/2014] [Accepted: 03/24/2014] [Indexed: 11/08/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Severe alopecia areata (AA) is resistant to conventional treatment. Although systemic oral corticosteroids are an effective treatment for patients with severe AA, those drugs have many adverse effects. Corticosteroid pulse therapy has been introduced to increase therapeutic effects and reduce adverse effects. However, the treatment modality in severe AA is still controversial. OBJECTIVE To evaluate the effectiveness of corticosteroid pulse therapy in patients with severe AA compared with treatment with oral cyclosporine with corticosteroid. METHODS A total of 82 patients with severe AA were treated with corticosteroid pulse therapy, and 60 patients were treated with oral cyclosporine with corticosteroid. Both groups were retrospectively evaluated for therapeutic efficacy according to AA type and disease duration. RESULTS In 82 patients treated with corticosteroid pulse therapy, 53 (64.6%) were good responders (>50% hair regrowth). Patients with the plurifocal (PF) type of AA and those with a short disease duration (≤3 months) showed better responses. In 60 patients treated with oral cyclosporine with corticosteroid, 30 (50.0%) patients showed a good response. The AA type or disease duration, however, did not significantly affect the response to treatment. CONCLUSION Corticosteroid pulse therapy may be a better treatment option than combination therapy in severe AA patients with the PF type.
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Affiliation(s)
- In Kwon Yeo
- Department of Dermatology, Chung-Ang University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Eun Jung Ko
- Department of Dermatology, Chung-Ang University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Yeon A No
- Department of Dermatology, Chung-Ang University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | | | - Kui Young Park
- Department of Dermatology, Chung-Ang University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Kapsok Li
- Department of Dermatology, Chung-Ang University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Beom Joon Kim
- Department of Dermatology, Chung-Ang University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Seong Jun Seo
- Department of Dermatology, Chung-Ang University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Myeung Nam Kim
- Department of Dermatology, Chung-Ang University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Chang Kwun Hong
- Department of Dermatology, Chung-Ang University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
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19
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Lalosevic J, Gajic-Veljic M, Bonaci-Nikolic B, Nikolic M. Combined oral pulse and topical corticosteroid therapy for severe alopecia areata in children: a long-term follow-up study. Dermatol Ther 2015; 28:309-17. [DOI: 10.1111/dth.12255] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Jovan Lalosevic
- Division of Pediatric Dermatology, Clinic of Dermatovenereology; Clinical Center of Serbia
| | - Mirjana Gajic-Veljic
- Division of Pediatric Dermatology, Clinic of Dermatovenereology; Clinical Center of Serbia
- Faculty of Medicine; University of Belgrade
| | - Branka Bonaci-Nikolic
- Faculty of Medicine; University of Belgrade
- Clinic of Allergy and Clinical Immunology; Clinical Center of Serbia; Belgrade Serbia
| | - Milos Nikolic
- Division of Pediatric Dermatology, Clinic of Dermatovenereology; Clinical Center of Serbia
- Faculty of Medicine; University of Belgrade
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20
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Smith A, Trüeb RM, Theiler M, Hauser V, Weibel L. High Relapse Rates Despite Early Intervention with Intravenous Methylprednisolone Pulse Therapy for Severe Childhood Alopecia Areata. Pediatr Dermatol 2015; 32:481-7. [PMID: 25872976 DOI: 10.1111/pde.12578] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Previous data suggest that early application of intravenous methylprednisolone pulse therapy (IV-MPPT) may improve the disease course of alopecia areata. The objective of this study was to investigate the outcome of IV-MPPT in severe childhood alopecia areata, predominantly with short disease duration. METHODS Eighteen children (10 girls, 8 boys) younger than 17 years old (median age 7.7 yrs, range 2.1-16.5 yrs) treated with IV-MPPT for severe childhood alopecia areata in a referral center for pediatric dermatology over 3 years (median disease duration 4 mos, range 1-12 mos) were retrospectively evaluated. Five patients had alopecia areata totalis or universalis and 13 had alopecia multilocularis. The median scalp area affected by alopecia was 60% (range 30%-100%). All patients underwent two or three cycles of IV-MPPT at monthly intervals (maximum 500 mg/day on three consecutive days). RESULTS Within 7 months after the last IV-MPPT session, 10 of 18 children had good response (≥75% of hair regrowth), with eight showing improvement within the first 4 months. Of the remaining eight patients, one had moderate response (50%-74% regrowth), three had poor response (1%-49% regrowth), and four (all with alopecia areata universalis or totalis) had no response. Seven of the initial 10 good responders experienced relapses, with marked hair loss after the last IV-MPPT session. The estimated median time to relapse was 8 months (95% confidence interval 7, 9 mos). CONCLUSION IV-MPPT, even early in the course of disease, did not affect long-term outcome of alopecia areata in our group of severely affected patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexandra Smith
- Department of Pediatric Dermatology, University Children's Hospital Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Ralph M Trüeb
- Center for Dermatology and Hair Diseases Professor Trüeb, Wallisellen, Switzerland
| | - Martin Theiler
- Department of Pediatric Dermatology, University Children's Hospital Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland.,Department of Dermatology, University Hospital Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Valérie Hauser
- Pediatric Dermatology, Ostschweizer Children's Hospital, St. Gallen, Switzerland
| | - Lisa Weibel
- Department of Pediatric Dermatology, University Children's Hospital Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland.,Department of Dermatology, University Hospital Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
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21
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Sato M, Amagai M, Ohyama M. Detailed clinicopathological characterization of progressive alopecia areata patients treated with i.v. corticosteroid pulse therapy toward optimization of inclusion criteria. J Dermatol 2014; 41:957-63. [PMID: 25292350 DOI: 10.1111/1346-8138.12637] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/29/2014] [Accepted: 08/24/2014] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
The management of progressive alopecia areata (AA) is often challenging. Recently, i.v. corticosteroid pulse therapy has been reported to be effective for acute and severe AA, however, inclusion criteria have not been sufficiently precise, leaving a chance that its efficacy could be further improved by optimizing therapeutic indications. In our attempts to delineate the factors that correlate with favorable outcomes, we minutely evaluated the clinicopathological findings and the prognoses of single-round steroid pulse-treated progressive AA cases with full sets of image and pathology records during the course. Almost complete hair regrowth has been achieved and maintained up to 2 years in five out of seven AA patients with varying degrees of clinical severity. Interestingly, the worst clinical presentation observed during the course correlated with the size of the area where hairs with dystrophic roots were pulled rather than the extent of visible hair loss on the first visit. Dermoscopy detected disease spread but contributed little in assessing prognoses. Dense perifollicular cell infiltration was detected in all cases treated within 4 weeks of onset and those treated later but with excellent response. Importantly, the cases with poor or incomplete hair regrowth were treated 6-8 weeks of onset and showed moderate inflammatory change with high telogen conversion rate. These findings mandate global dermoscopy and hair pull test for judging the treatment indication and suggest that early administration of high-dose corticosteroid, ideally within 4 weeks of onset, enable efficient suppression of active inflammation and maximize the effectiveness of the remedy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Misato Sato
- Department of Dermatology, Keio University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
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22
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Yang CC, Lee CT, Hsu CK, Lee YP, Wong TW, Chao SC, Lee JYY, Sheu HM, Chen W. Early intervention with high-dose steroid pulse therapy prolongs disease-free interval of severe alopecia areata: a retrospective study. Ann Dermatol 2013; 25:471-4. [PMID: 24371395 PMCID: PMC3870216 DOI: 10.5021/ad.2013.25.4.471] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/04/2012] [Revised: 11/17/2012] [Accepted: 12/11/2012] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Spontaneous recovery of severe alopecia areata is rare and the condition is difficult to treat. Objective The aim of this study is to investigate and compare the effects and safety of steroid pulse therapy between oral and intravenous administrations between 1999 and 2010 at the Department of Dermatology, National Cheng Kung University Hospital. Methods Data were retrospectively retrieved. A satisfactory response was defined as more than 75% hair regrowth in the balding area. Results A total of 85 patients with more than 50% hair loss were identified and treated, with an overall satisfactory response rate of 51.8%. The mean follow-up time was 37.6 months, with a relapse rate of 22.7%. Patients with alopecia areata (hereafter, AA) of recent onset within one year showed higher response rates (p<0.001) and lower relapse rates compared to patients with AA persisting for more than 1 year. Further, even in patients with alopecia totalis, alopecia universalis or ophiasis type, early treatment resulted in a satisfactory response rate of 47% among the treated patients. In general, oral therapy was as effective and well-tolerated as intravenous therapy. Conclusion The response rate is determined by disease severity and time of intervention, not by the administration form of steroid pulse therapy. Oral steroid pulse therapy can be considered as the first-line treatment for patients with severe AA of recent onset within one year.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chao-Chun Yang
- Department of Dermatology, National Cheng Kung University, College of Medicine, Tainan, Taiwan. ; Institute of Clinical Medicine, National Cheng Kung University, College of Medicine, Tainan, Taiwan
| | - Chun-Te Lee
- Department of Dermatology, National Cheng Kung University, College of Medicine, Tainan, Taiwan
| | - Chao-Kai Hsu
- Department of Dermatology, National Cheng Kung University, College of Medicine, Tainan, Taiwan. ; Institute of Clinical Medicine, National Cheng Kung University, College of Medicine, Tainan, Taiwan
| | - Yi-Pei Lee
- Department of Dermatology, National Cheng Kung University, College of Medicine, Tainan, Taiwan
| | - Tak-Wah Wong
- Department of Dermatology, National Cheng Kung University, College of Medicine, Tainan, Taiwan
| | - Sheau-Chiou Chao
- Department of Dermatology, National Cheng Kung University, College of Medicine, Tainan, Taiwan
| | - Julia Yu-Yun Lee
- Department of Dermatology, National Cheng Kung University, College of Medicine, Tainan, Taiwan
| | - Hamm-Ming Sheu
- Department of Dermatology, National Cheng Kung University, College of Medicine, Tainan, Taiwan
| | - Wenchieh Chen
- Department of Dermatology and Allergy, Technische Universität München, Munich, Germany
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23
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Açıkgöz G, Özmen İ, Çayırlı M, Yeniay Y, Köse O. Pulse methylprednisolone therapy for the treatment of extensive alopecia areata. J DERMATOL TREAT 2013; 25:164-6. [DOI: 10.3109/09546634.2013.768759] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Gürol Açıkgöz
- Department of Dermatology, Gülhane School of Medicine,
Ankara, Turkey
| | - İbrahim Özmen
- Department of Dermatology, Çorlu Military Hospital,
Tekirdağ, Turkey
| | - Mutlu Çayırlı
- Department of Dermatology, Ağrı Military Hospital,
Ağrı, Turkey
| | - Yıldıray Yeniay
- Department of Dermatology, Gülhane School of Medicine,
Ankara, Turkey
| | - Osman Köse
- Department of Dermatology, Gülhane School of Medicine,
Ankara, Turkey
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24
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Park KY, Jang WS, Son IP, Choi SY, Lee MY, Kim BJ, Kim MN, Ro BI. Combination therapy with cyclosporine and psoralen plus ultraviolet a in the patients with severe alopecia areata: a retrospective study with a self-controlled design. Ann Dermatol 2013; 25:12-6. [PMID: 23467536 PMCID: PMC3582915 DOI: 10.5021/ad.2013.25.1.12] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/22/2011] [Revised: 10/31/2011] [Accepted: 10/31/2011] [Indexed: 11/08/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Alopecia areata (AA) is believed to be an organ-specific autoimmune disease in which a mononuclear cell infiltrate develops in and around anagen hair follicles. There is no definitive therapy for AA. Objective We sought to determine whether the combination therapy of cyclosporine and psoralen plus ultraviolet A (PUVA) could be an effective treatment for severe AA. Methods A total of 41 patients with severe AA were treated with oral cyclosporine and topical PUVA. Cyclosporine was given at an initial daily dose of 200 mg for adult and 100 mg for children for periods of up to 16 weeks. Eight-methoxypsoralen (Methoxsalen) was applied topically 20 minutes prior to ultraviolet A (UVA) exposure, and the patients were irradiated with UVA twice a week for 16 weeks. Results Of the total 41 patients, 2 (7.3%) patients were lost to follow-up, and 1 (2.4%) patient discontinued the treatment due to abdominal discomfort. Six (14.6%) patients were treated for less than 12 weeks. Of remaining 32 patients, 3 (9.4%) showed excellent response, 3 (9.4%) showed good response, 12 (37.5%) showed fair response, and 14 (43.7%) showed poor response. Conclusion Although limited by its uncontrolled character, this study shows that the combination therapy with cyclosporine and PUVA may be an additional choice for severe and recalcitrant AA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kui Young Park
- Department of Dermatology, Chung-Ang University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
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25
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Friedland R, Tal R, Lapidoth M, Zvulunov A, Ben Amitai D. Pulse Corticosteroid Therapy for Alopecia Areata in Children: A Retrospective Study. Dermatology 2013; 227:37-44. [DOI: 10.1159/000351559] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/04/2013] [Accepted: 04/19/2013] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
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Staumont-Sallé D, Vonarx M, Lengrand F, Segard M, Delaporte E. Pulse Corticosteroid Therapy for Alopecia Areata: Long-Term Outcome after 10 Years. Dermatology 2012; 225:81-7. [DOI: 10.1159/000341523] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/17/2012] [Accepted: 06/14/2012] [Indexed: 01/05/2023] Open
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28
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Im M, Lee SS, Lee Y, Kim CD, Seo YJ, Lee JH, Park JK. Prognostic factors in methylprednisolone pulse therapy for alopecia areata. J Dermatol 2011; 38:767-72. [PMID: 21592197 DOI: 10.1111/j.1346-8138.2010.01135.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Many treatments induce remission in patients with alopecia areata. Systemic steroids, for example, are effective in the treatment of severe alopecia areata but have many side-effects. To avoid these side-effects, high-dose bolus infusions of methylprednisolone have been used to treat severe alopecia areata. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the prognostic factors associated with pulse therapy and to establish proper indications for methylprednisolone pulse therapy. Seventy patients with severe alopecia areata were treated i.v. with methylprednisolone on 3 consecutive days. All of the patients had rapid and extensive hair loss with the bald area exceeding 50% of the scalp. Seventy percent of the patients showed terminal hair growth and 41.4% showed complete responses with acceptable cosmetic outcomes. The prognostic factors that influenced successful outcome were the disease duration before treatment and the type of alopecia areata. Based on these two factors, a good response was obtained for all types of alopecia areata with a duration of 3months or less before treatment and for the plurifocal type of alopecia areata with a duration of 4-6months. Methylprednisolone pulse therapy is indicated for those alopecia areata patients who fall within our good response group.
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Affiliation(s)
- Myung Im
- Department of Dermatology, Chungnam National University Hospital, Daejeon, Korea.
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29
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Kamel MM, Salem SAM, Attia HHM. Successful treatment of resistant alopecia areata with a phototoxic dose of ultraviolet A after topical 8-methoxypsoralen application. PHOTODERMATOLOGY PHOTOIMMUNOLOGY & PHOTOMEDICINE 2011; 27:45-50. [DOI: 10.1111/j.1600-0781.2010.00564.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
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30
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Kim BJ, Uk min S, Park KY, Choi JW, Park SW, Youn SW, Park KC, Huh CH. Combination therapy of cyclosporine and methylprednisolone on severe alopecia areata. J DERMATOL TREAT 2009; 19:216-20. [DOI: 10.1080/09546630701846095] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
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31
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Affiliation(s)
- Niyati Mukherjee
- Department of Internal Medicine, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA.
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32
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Luggen P, Hunziker T. High-dose intravenous corticosteroid pulse therapy in alopecia areata: own experience compared with the literature. J Dtsch Dermatol Ges 2008; 6:375-8. [PMID: 18205838 DOI: 10.1111/j.1610-0387.2007.06608.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Seven prospective studies including 193 patients have been published on high-dose intravenous corticosteroid pulse therapy in alopecia areata (AA). We compare these data with a retrospective analysis of our own consecutive patients. PATIENTS AND METHODS Between 1998 and 2002,25 patients with severe AA were treated at the Department of Dermatology, University of Bern, with infusions of 500 mg methylprednisolone on 3 consecutive days. In addition to the inpatient records, in 2004 all patients were followed up by a questionnaire. RESULTS Four of 10 patients with multifocal AA and 3 of 9 patients with ophiasis-type AA had full re-growth of hair, whereas all 6 patients with AA totalis/universalis failed to respond. CONCLUSION Intravenous corticosteroid pulse therapy may be helpful in the treatment of multifocal and ophiasis-type AA. Patients with an initial episode of short duration have better chances for success.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peter Luggen
- Department of Dermatology, University of Bern, Switzerland
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Fujimoto A, Kimura R, Ohashi J, Omi K, Yuliwulandari R, Batubara L, Mustofa MS, Samakkarn U, Settheetham-Ishida W, Ishida T, Morishita Y, Furusawa T, Nakazawa M, Ohtsuka R, Tokunaga K. A scan for genetic determinants of human hair morphology: EDAR is associated with Asian hair thickness. Hum Mol Genet 2007; 17:835-43. [PMID: 18065779 DOI: 10.1093/hmg/ddm355] [Citation(s) in RCA: 174] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Hair morphology is one of the most differentiated traits among human populations. However, genetic backgrounds of hair morphological differences among populations have not been clarified yet. In addition, little is known about the evolutionary forces that have acted on hair morphology. To identify hair morphology-determining genes, the levels of local genetic differentiation in 170 genes that are related to hair morphogenesis were evaluated by using data from the International HapMap project. Among highly differentiated genes, ectodysplasin A receptor (EDAR) harboring an Asian-specific non-synonymous single nucleotide polymorphism (1540T/C, 370Val/Ala) was identified as a strong candidate. Association studies between genotypes and hair morphology revealed that the Asian-specific 1540C allele is associated with increase in hair thickness. Reporter gene assays suggested that 1540T/C affects the activity of the downstream transcription factor NF-kappaB. It was inferred from geographic distribution of 1540T/C and the long-range haplotype test that 1540C arose after the divergence of Asians from Europeans and its frequency has rapidly increased in East Asian populations. These findings lead us to conclude that EDAR is a major genetic determinant of Asian hair thickness and the 1540C allele spread through Asian populations due to recent positive selection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Akihiro Fujimoto
- Department of Human Genetics, Graduate School of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, Hongo, Tokyo, Japan
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Nakajima T, Inui S, Itami S. Pulse corticosteroid therapy for alopecia areata: study of 139 patients. Dermatology 2007; 215:320-4. [PMID: 17911990 DOI: 10.1159/000107626] [Citation(s) in RCA: 61] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/26/2007] [Accepted: 05/01/2007] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND/AIM Recent reports of pulse corticosteroid therapy for alopecia areata (AA) show its efficacy for patients with a history of < or = 1 year but not for recalcitrant cases or alopecia totalis/universalis. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the efficacy and safety of pulse corticosteroid therapy for recent-onset AA patients. METHOD A total of 139 severe AA patients aged >15 years were included in this study. The duration from the onset of active hair loss was within 12 months for 125 (89.9%) of those patients. RESULTS Of the patients, 72.7% had hair loss on > 50% of their scalp area. Among the recent-onset group (duration of AA < or = 6 months), 59.4% were good responders (> 75% regrowth of alopecia lesions), while 15.8% with > 6 months duration showed a good response. Recent-onset AA patients with less severe disease (< or = 50% hair loss) responded at a rate of 88.0%, but only 21.4% of recent-onset patients with 100% hair loss responded. No serious adverse effects were observed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Takeshi Nakajima
- Department of Regenerative Dermatology, Graduate School of Medicine, Osaka University, Osaka, Japan
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Joly P. The use of methotrexate alone or in combination with low doses of oral corticosteroids in the treatment of alopecia totalis or universalis. J Am Acad Dermatol 2006; 55:632-6. [PMID: 17010743 DOI: 10.1016/j.jaad.2005.09.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 54] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/16/2004] [Revised: 09/14/2005] [Accepted: 09/27/2005] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
Abstract
Treatment of severe alopecia areata (AA) remains difficult. To assess the tolerance and efficacy of methotrexate (MTX) in the treatment of severe long-term AA, we retrospectively evaluated 22 patients with AA totalis or universalis with a mean duration of 11.0 +/- 8.8 years who were treated with MTX either alone (n = 6) or associated with low doses of oral prednisone (n = 16). MTX was given at an initial weekly dosage of 15 mg (n = 3), 20 mg (n = 9), or 25 mg (n = 10). Oral prednisone was given at an initial dosage of 10 mg/d in one patient and 20 mg/d in 15 patients. In all, 14 patients (64%) achieved a total recovery including 3 of 6 patients treated by MTX alone and 11 of 16 who had received the combined treatment. Of the 14 patients who had total hair regrowth, 6 stopped MTX. In all, 3 patients maintained hair regrowth and 3 relapsed. Retreatment of these 3 patients by MTX resulted again in hair regrowth. No severe side effect was observed. Although limited by its uncontrolled character, this study shows that MTX and low doses of oral corticosteroids may be an effective and well-tolerated treatment for severe types of AA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pascal Joly
- Department of Dermatology, Rouen University Hospital-Charles Nicolle, Rouen, France.
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Kurosawa M, Nakagawa S, Mizuashi M, Sasaki Y, Kawamura M, Saito M, Aiba S. A Comparison of the Efficacy, Relapse Rate and Side Effects among Three Modalities of Systemic Corticosteroid Therapy for Alopecia Areata. Dermatology 2006; 212:361-5. [PMID: 16707886 DOI: 10.1159/000092287] [Citation(s) in RCA: 60] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/24/2005] [Accepted: 09/10/2005] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Systemic corticosteroids are one of the most commonly used therapeutic modalities for patients with extensive alopecia areata (AA), although they entail several drawbacks. OBJECTIVE To determine the best modality for systemic corticosteroid use in terms of their efficacy, relapse rate, and side effects. METHODS Fifty-one patients with single or multiple AA (AA/multiplex) and 38 patients with alopecia totalis or AA universalis (AA totalis/universalis) were enrolled in this open study. They were randomly divided into three groups depending on the time of their initial visit. They were administered (1) oral dexamethasone (Dex) 0.5 mg/day for 6 months (Dex group), (2) intramuscular triamcinolone acetonide (imTA) 40 mg once a month for 6 months followed by 40 mg once every 1.5 months for 1 year (imTA group), and (3) pulse therapy (PT) using oral predonine 80 mg for 3 consecutive days once every 3 months (PT group). After the treatment, each treatment modality was evaluated by the response rate, relapse rate, and side effect profile. RESULTS The response rate of AA/multiplex was significantly better in the imTA group than in the Dex group. The overall relapse rate and that of AA totalis/universalis were significantly better in the PT group than in the Dex group. Dysmenorrhea was the most common and problematic side effect. Impairment of the adrenocortical reserve was seen in 7% of the PT group and 23% of the imTA group, which was recovered without any further medical treatment. CONCLUSION imTA or pulse therapy is effective for AA and has an acceptable level of side effects. The development of a new strategy to reduce the relapse rate is needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Masahiro Kurosawa
- Department of Dermatology, Tohoku University Graduate School of Medicine, Sendai, Japan
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Chraibi H, Dereure O, Stoebner PE, Guilhou JJ, Guillot B. Pelade et bolus de méthylprednisolone. Ann Dermatol Venereol 2004; 131:286-7. [PMID: 15107751 DOI: 10.1016/s0151-9638(04)93596-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
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Yamazaki M, Miura Y, Tsuboi R, Ogawa H. Linear polarized infrared irradiation using Super Lizer is an effective treatment for multiple-type alopecia areata. Int J Dermatol 2003; 42:738-40. [PMID: 12956694 DOI: 10.1046/j.1365-4362.2003.01968.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 46] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Super Lizer trade mark is a linear polarized light instrument, which has been used with good effect in orthopedics and anesthesiology to treat arthralgia and neuralgia with a high output of infrared radiation. AIM To test Super Lizer trade mark 's efficacy for the treatment of alopecia areata. METHODS Fifteen patients over 18 years of age, diagnosed with alopecia areata and displaying symptoms of patchy hair loss, were topically irradiated with infrared radiation using the Super Lizer trade mark. The patients were irradiated intermittently for an interval of 3 min once every week or every 2 weeks. RESULTS Seven of 15 (46.7%) of the irradiated areas showed hair regrowth 1.6 months earlier than the nonirradiated areas (chi2 official approval, P = 0.003). With regard to adverse effects caused by Super Lizer trade mark treatment, only one patient complained of a sensation of heat in the irradiated area. CONCLUSIONS These findings suggest that Super Lizer trade mark, with its noninvasive properties, is a useful apparatus for the treatment of mild forms of alopecia areata.
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Affiliation(s)
- Masashi Yamazaki
- Department of Dermatology, Juntendo University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan.
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Freyschmidt-Paul P, Happle R, McElwee KJ, Hoffmann R. Alopecia areata: treatment of today and tomorrow. J Investig Dermatol Symp Proc 2003; 8:12-7. [PMID: 12894988 DOI: 10.1046/j.1523-1747.2003.12165.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
It is the aim of this article to review and appraise available data on treatments for alopecia areata (AA) according to the demands of evidence based medicine. Studies evaluating the efficacy of a treatment for AA should include appropriate controls, use cosmetically acceptable hair regrowth as a parameter for treatment success, include patients with AA totalis, universalis or extensive patchy AA, and exclude patients suffering from AA for less than 3 months. Moreover, the treatment must be safe over a prolonged period of time. Among the various therapeutic approaches presently available for AA, only treatment with contact sensitizers such as diphenylcyclopropenone or squaric acid dibutylester has been shown to be effective in studies that fulfill these criteria. Improved future treatments may be immunosuppressive or immunomodulatory targeting of the autoimmune pathogenesis of AA, or they may otherwise protect hair follicles from the injurious effects of inflammation. Such possible future therapeutic approaches include the incorporation of immunomodulatory agents into liposomes as an improved vehicle; inhibition of apoptosis mediated by the Fas-FasL system; inhibition of the lymphocyte homing receptor CD44v10; induction of tolerance.
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Abstract
Giant cell arteritis can result in devastating visual loss. Treatment with steroids does result in visual recovery in some patients but the exact percentage is unknown. Intravenous megadose steroids appear to offer some advantage over oral steroids presumably through non-genomic effects, which manifest at doses of 500 mg or more. Side-effects are more likely in the elderly especially those with renal and cardiac co-morbidities. The authors' current recommendation is that intravenous steroids should be given to patients with established visual loss or amaurosis fugax.
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Affiliation(s)
- Colin C K Chan
- Sydney Eye Hospital, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia.
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Sato-Kawamura M, Aiba S, Tagami H. Acute diffuse and total alopecia of the female scalp. A new subtype of diffuse alopecia areata that has a favorable prognosis. Dermatology 2003; 205:367-73. [PMID: 12444333 DOI: 10.1159/000066435] [Citation(s) in RCA: 56] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Although alopecia areata (AA) usually starts with focal lesions of hair loss and then presents several different clinical forms, AA may begin as diffuse hair loss. We examined 9 female patients who presented with acute, diffuse and total hair loss of the scalp and took a similar clinical course with a favorable prognosis. OBJECTIVE To categorize such cases as a new subgroup of diffuse alopecia. METHODS We studied 9 patients who showed acute, diffuse and total hair loss of the scalp within 1 month after their first visit to our hospital by comparing their clinical course, laboratory tests and histopathological findings with those of common, patchy AA, alopecia totalis or alopecia universalis. RESULTS None of the patients had a background of systemic diseases or telogen effluvium. All the patients were female, and 8 of the 9 cases recovered cosmetically acceptable hair growth within 6 months regardless of steroid administration. The histology of he lesions was indistinguishable from that of AA except for a remarkable eosinophilic infiltrate. CONCLUSIONS These cases can be categorized as a new subtype of inflammatory noncicatricial alopecia that is characterized by a marked female predominance, tissue eosinophilia and uniquely short clinical course. We suggest to name it 'acute diffuse and total alopecia of the female scalp (ADTAFS)'.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maki Sato-Kawamura
- Department of Dermatology, Tohoku University School of Medicine, Sendai, Japan
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