Acute Localized Exanthematous Pustulosis Caused by Topical Application of Minoxidil
January 2023
in “
Journal of Clinical Medicine
”
New to Minoxidil? There is a guide in the encyclopedia. Read the guide → Studysummary This paper presents the first reported case of Acute Localized Exanthematous Pustulosis linked to topical minoxidil use, suggesting a contact-induced hypersensitivity reaction as a potential mechanism. Our plain-language summary of this paper — not a Tressless recommendation.
This case report documents the first instance of Acute Localized Exanthematous Pustulosis (ALEP) caused by topical minoxidil in a 31-year-old female with androgenetic alopecia. The patient developed pruritic pustules on her scalp, forehead, and neck 48 hours after using a compounded foam with minoxidil and 17-a-estradiol. Positive patch tests for minoxidil and symptom resolution after discontinuation confirmed the diagnosis. This case underscores a contact-induced hypersensitivity reaction to minoxidil, suggesting the involvement of minoxidil-specific T-cells and expanding the understanding of ALEP's pathophysiology.