Autoimmune Disease and Hair Loss

October 2012 in “ Dermatologic Clinics ”

Siamak Moghadam-Kia, Andrew G. Franks

autoimmune diseases hair loss systemic lupus erythematosus SLE dermatomyositis DM scleroderma Morphea scarring alopecia nonscarring alopecia alopecia antimalarials immunosuppressants NYU treatment protocols antibiotic treatment fibromyalgia lupus NYU Rx protocol

Studysummary This article reviews the impact of different forms of alopecia on patients with systemic autoimmune diseases and reports no new clinical findings; it emphasizes the need for attentive management of alopecia-related symptoms.

Our plain-language summary. Not medical advice or a treatment recommendation. Consult a qualified healthcare professional before changing treatment. Full disclaimer

The document from 2013 explores the relationship between autoimmune diseases and hair loss, focusing on systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), dermatomyositis (DM), scleroderma, and Morphea. It highlights that over 50% of SLE patients suffer from hair loss, which can be a primary symptom and may manifest as scarring or nonscarring alopecia. The document details the clinical presentation, diagnostic methods, and differential diagnosis for lupus-related hair loss, emphasizing the need for early treatment to prevent permanent damage. It also discusses the psychological impact of hair loss on patients and the importance of addressing it post systemic disease remission. Various treatments for autoimmune-related hair loss are outlined, including systemic therapies like antimalarials and immunosuppressants, and the NYU treatment protocols for DM/PM and localized scleroderma. Additionally, the document describes the NYU Rx protocol for Morphea, which involves antibiotic treatment and assessment for other autoimmune diseases, and notes that certain medications for systemic autoimmune diseases and fibromyalgia can cause alopecia. The prevalence of fibromyalgia is mentioned to be about 2%, with an increase in incidence with age. The document does not provide specific numbers of participants in any referenced studies or clinical assessments.

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