Hair Regrowth Outcomes of Contact Immunotherapy for Patients With Alopecia Areata

The study evaluated contact immunotherapy's effectiveness in 2,227 alopecia areata (AA) patients, using diphenylcyclopropenone or squaric acid dibutyl ester. It found a 65.5% overall hair regrowth rate, with patchy alopecia patients experiencing higher regrowth (74.6%) compared to those with alopecia totalis or universalis (54.5%). Complete regrowth was less common at 32.3%. The study noted significant variability in regrowth rates due to differing study criteria and highlighted the need for standardized regrowth criteria. Despite frequent adverse effects, such as severe eczema and systemic symptoms, contact immunotherapy was a common treatment for severe AA, with maintenance treatment reducing relapse risk. The study emphasized the importance of tailored approaches and patient education to enhance adherence and satisfaction.