HIV and Alopecia Universalis

The document discussed a case of HIV and alopecia universalis, noting that unlike a previous study by Kameyama et al., an increased number of melanocytes was not observed in their patient. The authors suggested that azelaic acid might penetrate active melanocytes more easily, and the melanocytes in their patient might have been less active. They also proposed that the pathogenetic mechanisms in different disorders, such as DDD and RAPK, might differ, particularly concerning tyrosinase activity and melanocyte regulation. They recommended a larger trial to determine the responsiveness to azelaic acid in patients with reticulate pigmentation and to provide more information about the pathogenesis of these disorders.