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 Click here to see an illustration., 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

  1. Springer K, et al. (2003). Common hair loss disorder. American Family Physician, 68(1): 93–102.

  2. 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

Healthwise Logo
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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