Recalcitrant Widespread Alopecia Areata in a Child Treated Successfully with Oral Methylprednisolone Pulse Therapy

July 2013 in “ Our Dermatology Online ”

Neerja Puri

alopecia areata methylprednisolone pulse therapy tacrolimus corticosteroids hair loss steroid treatment

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.

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Research cited in this study

4 / 4 results

research A Comparison of the Efficacy, Relapse Rate, and Side Effects Among Three Modalities of Systemic Corticosteroid Therapy for Alopecia Areata

97 citations , January 2006 in “Dermatology”

imTA and pulse therapy are effective for alopecia areata with manageable side effects, but relapse rates need improvement.

research Alefacept for Alopecia Areata

33 citations , December 2005 in “Archives of dermatology”

Alefacept showed some effectiveness for alopecia areata but needs more research.

research Guidelines for the Management of Alopecia Areata

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.

research Pulsed Administration of Corticosteroids in the Treatment of Alopecia Areata

117 citations , February 1996 in “International Journal of Dermatology”

A 300 mg monthly pulse of prednisolone effectively and safely treats widespread alopecia areata.

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