Anagen Effluvium Induced by Azathioprine: Report of a Rare Adverse Effect

Azathioprine, an immunosuppressive drug, can cause anagen effluvium, a type of hair loss, as a rare adverse effect. This report details a 36-year-old female patient who developed diffuse hair loss two weeks after starting azathioprine therapy for dry eye syndrome. The hair loss, indicative of anagen effluvium, occurred alongside agranulocytosis, necessitating hospitalization. Upon discontinuing azathioprine and starting treatment with topical and oral minoxidil, the patient experienced significant hair regrowth within one month. This case highlights the uncommon occurrence of azathioprine-induced anagen effluvium and the positive outcome following drug withdrawal.