TLDR The combination therapy was effective and well-tolerated, especially in young patients.
The study evaluated the combination of 308-nm excimer phototherapy and monthly intramuscular triamcinolone acetonide (TAC) for treating resistant alopecia totalis (AT) in 10 patients, showing a 90% overall response rate. Complete hair regrowth was achieved in 40% of patients, with younger patients and those with a shorter disease history responding better. Adverse effects were mild and temporary, and recurrence was noted in 22.2% of responders during the 8-12 month follow-up. The combination therapy was effective and well-tolerated, particularly in young patients, but the small sample size limited the generalizability of the results, indicating a need for larger randomized controlled trials.
148 citations
,
December 2018 in “Journal of autoimmunity” Alopecia areata is an autoimmune disease causing patchy hair loss, often with other autoimmune disorders, but its exact causes are unknown.
44 citations
,
April 2017 in “International Journal of Dermatology” No treatment is completely effective for alopecia totalis and alopecia universalis.
12 citations
,
July 2016 in “Journal of dermatology” Intramuscular triamcinolone acetonide is an effective treatment for severe alopecia areata, especially in males.
80 citations
,
November 1975 in “Acta dermato-venereologica” Large doses of glucocorticoids are not suitable for general use in treating severe alopecia areata due to inconsistent results and risks.
1 citations
,
January 2023 in “Przegląd Dermatologiczny” The Polish Society of Dermatology recommends treatments for alopecia areata that vary by severity, including topical and systemic medications, with long-term maintenance important for management.
4 citations
,
September 2011 in “Expert Review of Dermatology” Various treatments exist for alopecia areata, but none are completely satisfactory; choice depends on age, disease extent, and preference.
85 citations
,
October 2012 in “Dermatologic Clinics” Alopecia Areata is an autoimmune condition often starting before age 20, with varied treatment success and a need for personalized treatment plans.
2 citations
,
March 2015 in “Expert opinion on orphan drugs” New treatments for hair loss show promise but need more research to confirm safety and effectiveness.
23 citations
,
October 2020 in “Anais brasileiros de dermatologia/Anais Brasileiros de Dermatologia” Tailored treatments for alopecia areata are recommended based on severity and patient needs.
