Contact immunotherapy for hair loss

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Contact immunotherapy for hair loss

Alopecia areata is hair loss caused when the immune system attacks hair follicles , where hair growth begins. Contact immunotherapy is an experimental therapy that may be the most effective treatment for severe alopecia areata.¹ A common medication used is diphenylcyclopropenone (DPCP).

DPCP, a liquid, is "painted" on the scalp once a week. The concentration of the solution is increased at each treatment session until a mild allergic reaction occurs. Hair growth may appear within 3 months of beginning treatment.

A review of research on contact immunotherapy notes that about half of those with severe alopecia areata had a good response, but how much hair grew back varied widely.²

Side effects of contact immunotherapy include a severe rash (contact dermatitis) and swollen lymph nodes, especially in the neck.

References

Citations
Springer K, et al. (2003). Common hair loss disorder. American Family Physician, 68(1): 93–102.
MacDonald Hull SP, et al. (2003). Guidelines for the management of alopecia areata. British Journal of Dermatology, 149: 692–699.

Credits

Author	Robin Parks, MS
Editor	Kathleen M. Ariss, MS
Associate Editor	Tracy Landauer
Associate Editor	Pat Truman
Primary Medical Reviewer	Patrice Burgess, MD - Family Medicine
Primary Medical Reviewer	Martin Gabica, MD - Family Medicine
Specialist Medical Reviewer	Randall D. Burr, MD - Dermatology
Last Updated	July 3, 2006

Last updated:	July 03, 2006
Author:	Robin Parks, MS
Reviewed By:	Martin Gabica, MD - Family Medicine, Randall D. Burr, MD - Dermatology
Editors:	Kathleen M. Ariss, MS, Pat Truman

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