TLDR Secukinumab can cause hair loss, which may improve after stopping the medication.
Secukinumab, an IL-17A-targeting biological agent used for treating spondyloarthritis, can cause alopecia areata (AA) as a rare adverse effect. This case report details a 46-year-old female with SpA who developed an ophiasis pattern of AA while on secukinumab, with hair regrowth observed after discontinuing the medication. The report discusses the patient's clinical course, potential pathophysiological mechanisms, and reviews similar cases in the literature, emphasizing the need for awareness and management of secukinumab-induced AA and further research into tailored treatments.
37 citations
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December 2021 in “Cells” Alopecia areata severity and treatment response are linked to specific cytokine levels.
20 citations
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March 2019 in “Case Reports in Dermatology” IL-17 inhibitors for psoriasis may cause unexpected hair loss.
28 citations
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March 2018 in “Archives of Dermatological Research”
2 citations
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April 2025 in “Biologics” Dupilumab and ustekinumab are promising treatments for alopecia areata, showing significant hair regrowth.
September 2025 in “Frontiers in Immunology” Atopic dermatitis and alopecia areata share immune and genetic factors, and targeted therapies may help both.
37 citations
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December 2021 in “Cells” Alopecia areata severity and treatment response are linked to specific cytokine levels.
57 citations
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August 2023 in “American Journal of Clinical Dermatology” JAK inhibitors and platelet-rich plasma show promise for treating alopecia areata.
March 2022 in “Wound practice & research” New treatments for alopecia areata show promise, but standardized guidelines are needed.
