Resolution of Discoid Lupus Alopecia With Systemic Hydroxychloroquine and Topical Pimecrolimus Combination Therapy

June 2024 in “ Cureus ”

Kristine R Liang, Cynthia Lee, Alexis Hilts, Harry Greenberg

discoid lupus erythematosus DLE alopecia hydroxychloroquine pimecrolimus intralesional corticosteroids topical calcineurin inhibitors topical corticosteroids hair loss Plaquenil Elidel

TLDR Combining hydroxychloroquine and pimecrolimus can effectively treat hair loss from discoid lupus.

A 46-year-old woman with localized scarring alopecia due to discoid lupus erythematosus (DLE) experienced significant hair regrowth and resolution of alopecia after an eight-week treatment with oral hydroxychloroquine (200 mg twice daily) and topical pimecrolimus (1% cream). Initial treatments with triamcinolone injection, tacrolimus ointment, and clobetasol ointment were ineffective. This case highlights the potential effectiveness of combining systemic hydroxychloroquine with topical pimecrolimus for treating DLE alopecia, suggesting a promising approach for future management of this condition.

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