Current Treatment of Alopecia Areata
December 2013
in “
The journal of investigative dermatology. Symposium proceedings/The Journal of investigative dermatology symposium proceedings
”
Alopecia Areata steroids topical immunotherapy minoxidil anthralin immunosuppressants intralesional corticosteroids topical sensitizers DPCP SADBE systemic treatments intralesional triamcinolone acetonide topical clobetasol propionate dermatography medical tattooing scalp prostheses Rogaine Diphencyprone Squaric Acid Dibutyl Ester Kenalog Clobex
TLDR There are no FDA-approved treatments for Alopecia Areata, and current options have varying success and relapse rates.
The document discussed the treatment of Alopecia Areata (AA), noting the lack of FDA-approved treatments and the use of various options like steroids, topical immunotherapy, minoxidil, anthralin, and immunosuppressants, none of which were curative or preventive. Intralesional corticosteroids were first-line for adults with limited involvement, while topical treatments had varying efficacy. Topical sensitizers like DPCP and SADBE had 50-60% success rates but common relapses. Systemic treatments had high relapse rates and significant side effects. Support groups and patient education were emphasized. DPCP was preferred, with intralesional triamcinolone acetonide for partial responders, and alternative treatments like 5% minoxidil, topical clobetasol propionate, or anthralin were considered if DPCP failed. For eyebrow AA, minoxidil 5% with or without triamcinolone injections was suggested, and dermatography or medical tattooing for prolonged loss. Scalp prostheses were also valuable during or after treatment.
