TLDR Oral methylprednisolone pulse therapy helped an 11-year-old regrow 80% of his hair in six months.
An 11-year-old male with widespread alopecia areata, covering over 40% of his scalp, did not respond to topical tacrolimus and corticosteroids. He was then treated with oral methylprednisolone pulse therapy (500 mg/day for three consecutive days each month). After six months, the patient experienced 80% hair regrowth in the affected area.
97 citations,
January 2006 in “Dermatology” imTA and pulse therapy are effective for alopecia areata with manageable side effects, but relapse rates need improvement.
33 citations,
December 2005 in “Archives of dermatology” Alefacept showed some effectiveness for alopecia areata but needs more research.
182 citations,
October 2003 in “British Journal of Dermatology” The 2003 guidelines suggest that while some treatments can regrow hair in alopecia areata, none alter the disease's progression, and wigs may be the best option for extensive hair loss.
117 citations,
February 1996 in “International Journal of Dermatology” A 300 mg monthly pulse of prednisolone effectively and safely treats widespread alopecia areata.
April 2019 in “International journal of research in dermatology” A child with rough nails also had hair loss and allergies.
