Gloriosa Superba Poisoning-Induced Anagen Effluvium

This case report discusses a 38-year-old female who experienced anagen effluvium, a type of sudden hair loss, after accidentally consuming Gloriosa superba tubers, which are rich in colchicine. The patient initially suffered from severe gastrointestinal symptoms and required intensive care for pancytopenia and liver dysfunction. Two weeks later, she presented with massive nonscarring alopecia on the scalp and face. Examination revealed dystrophic anagen hair bulbs, confirming the diagnosis of anagen effluvium due to colchicine toxicity. Treatment with 5% minoxidil was initiated, and complete hair regrowth was observed after 2 months. The report highlights the importance for dermatologists in tropical regions to consider G. superba poisoning in cases of sudden diffuse alopecia.