Myeloproliferative Disorder Associated With Alopecia Universalis

July 2024 in “ JAAD Case Reports ”

Mardeen S. Karim, Heeran S. Karim, Pranita V. Rambhatla

alopecia universalis myeloproliferative disorder essential thrombocythemia JAK/STAT signaling ruxolitinib JAK2 mutations autoimmune processes AU MPD ET

Studysummary This article discusses the clinical and histological features of alopecia areata, a T-cell-mediated autoimmune disorder causing unpredictable nonscarring hair loss, without providing new clinical findings. Our plain-language summary of this paper — not a Tressless recommendation.

This document discusses a case of alopecia universalis (AU) in a 67-year-old woman with a myeloproliferative disorder (MPD) and essential thrombocythemia (ET), linked to aberrant JAK/STAT signaling. The patient experienced complete hair loss, which was treated with ruxolitinib, a JAK/STAT inhibitor, leading to significant hair regrowth after 4 months. The study highlights the potential connection between JAK2 mutations in MPDs and autoimmune processes like AU, suggesting that MPDs should be considered in patients with significant hair loss and hematologic abnormalities. Further research is needed to explore the pathophysiologic mechanisms involved.

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research The Role of Janus Kinase Inhibitors in the Treatment of Alopecia Areata: A Systematic Review

19 citations , August 2019 in “Dermatologic therapy”

This review discusses the use of Janus kinase inhibitors for alopecia areata and reports promising short-term efficacy but low-quality evidence, highlighting the need for further research to confirm long-term safety and effectiveness.

research Alopecia Areata: A Review of Disease Pathogenesis

191 citations , May 2018 in “British journal of dermatology/British journal of dermatology, Supplement”

This study reviewed recent theories on alopecia areata's pathogenesis, highlighting its autoimmune nature due to immune privilege disruption in hair follicles, and noted current treatments have limited efficacy with high relapse rates, underscoring the need for further research into its mechanisms for better therapies.

research Janus Kinase (JAK) Inhibitors for the Treatment of Skin and Hair Disorders: A Review of Literature

40 citations , December 2016 in “Journal of Dermatological Treatment”

This study reviewed the role of the JAK/STAT signaling pathway in skin diseases and the potential of JAK inhibitors for treating conditions like psoriasis and atopic dermatitis. Although the findings are promising, the authors concluded it is premature to establish their place in dermatological treatments.