Reversible Alopecia Universalis During Treatment with PEG-Interferon and Ribavirin for Chronic Hepatitis C

    April 2005 in “ Journal of Chemotherapy ”
    Gloria Taliani, Elisa Biliotti, M. Capanni, A. Tozzi, S. Bresci, Nicola Pimpinelli
    Image of study
    TLDR Some patients may experience temporary total hair loss from hepatitis C treatment with PEG-interferon and ribavirin.
    The document describes two female patients with chronic hepatitis C who developed reversible alopecia universalis while being treated with PEG-interferon and ribavirin. The hair loss occurred during the second half of their 48-week therapy. One patient, who also had low ferritin levels and thyroid dysfunction, stopped treatment at week 26 and regained hair after corticosteroid therapy but experienced a hepatitis C relapse. The other patient, who suffered from depression, completed the treatment and her hair regrew spontaneously, achieving a sustained virological response. The study suggests that interferon therapy may cause reversible alopecia universalis in some patients, and emphasizes the importance of completing treatment for those with a virological response to avoid hepatitis C relapse.
    Discuss this study in the Community →

    Research cited in this study

    3 / 3 results

    Related Community Posts Join

    6 / 1000+ results

      community What hurts the most is that only minority of us are balding

      in Chat  252 upvotes 1 year ago
      The conversation discusses the emotional impact of early hair loss in men, with many feeling isolated and self-conscious. Some users also mention the lack of awareness about potential treatments like Minoxidil and Finasteride.

      community Alopecia Areata Question

      in Treatment  2 upvotes 4 years ago
      A user with alopecia totalis, borderline universalis, seeks advice on getting into a Xeljanz trial or appealing insurance for coverage. They experienced significant hair regrowth but are now seeing hair loss again and want to try Xeljanz.

      community No hair, don't care! [24/F] :)

       61 upvotes 9 years ago
      A woman with alopecia universalis shares her positive experience of being bald, finding it freeing and less worrisome. She also discusses her skincare routine using Korean products.

      community Olumiant alternative for Alopecia Areata?

      in Treatment  1 upvotes 1 year ago
      A user with alopecia areata is considering treatment options like injections or Olumiant but is concerned about cost and whether delaying treatment will lead to permanent hair loss. They are seeking alternative treatments that are more affordable for a college student.

      community Scalp, eyebrow, eyelash and pubic hair loss.

       6 upvotes 6 years ago
      The user experienced significant hair loss on the scalp, eyebrows, eyelashes, and pubic area, along with itchy, flaky skin and red patches. They have a history of eczema and dermatitis and suspect that stopping shampoo use and taking Ritalin may have contributed to the issue.

      community Just find a cure already, I am totally done

      in Chat  161 upvotes 6 months ago
      The conversation is about hair loss treatments, with users recommending finasteride and minoxidil as effective solutions. Some users report side effects, but overall, the consensus is to use these treatments rather than waiting for a cure.

    Similar Research

    5 / 1000+ results