Reversible Alopecia Universalis Secondary to PEG-Interferon Alpha-2b and Ribavirin Combination Therapy in a Patient with Chronic Hepatitis C Virus Infection

In 2007, a 34-year-old female with chronic hepatitis C developed reversible alopecia universalis (AU) after being treated with PEG-interferon α-2b and ribavirin. She experienced complete hair loss by the fourth month of treatment, which progressed to AU by the seventh month. Despite this, treatment continued due to her positive response and tolerance of the side effect. Hair regrowth started within 3 months post-treatment, and she achieved sustained virologic and biochemical response 8 months later, although hair regrowth was incomplete. This case indicates that AU can be a reversible side effect of PEG-interferon α-2b and ribavirin therapy for chronic HCV, and treatment can be completed with good patient response and advanced liver disease.