Post-COVID-19 Alopecia Universalis: Autoimmune Hair Loss and the Challenge of Relapse Management

Alopecia universalis (AU) can be triggered by COVID-19 through immune dysregulation, specifically via interferon-gamma-mediated inflammation. This case study of a 79-year-old woman, who developed AU one month post-COVID-19, highlights the rapid onset and relapsing nature of post-COVID-19 AU. Initial treatments with corticosteroids were ineffective, leading to systemic therapy, which resulted in significant hair regrowth over 10 months. However, hair loss recurred 3 months after stopping treatment, underscoring the relapsing nature of the condition. The study emphasizes the need for modified long-term treatment strategies, as current options like JAK inhibitors show promise but also a risk of relapse upon discontinuation. Further research is needed to develop effective long-term management and maintenance therapies for post-viral AU.