Reversible Hair Loss in a Patient With Cicatricial Alopecia: A Case of Regrowth Associated With Pioglitazone Use

October 2022 in “ JAAD case reports ”

Maria Karim, Elizabeth J. Klein, Nooshin K. Brinster, Evan A. Rieder, Kristen Lo Sicco, Jerry Shapiro

cicatricial alopecia lichen planopilaris pioglitazone low-level light therapy corticosteroids hydroxychloroquine doxycycline minoxidil immunomodulating properties LLLT Rogaine

TLDR Pioglitazone use was linked to hair regrowth in a patient with permanent hair loss from cicatricial alopecia.

A 52-year-old female with biopsy-confirmed lichen planopilaris (LPP), a type of cicatricial alopecia, experienced significant hair regrowth after incorporating oral pioglitazone and low-level light therapy (LLLT) into her treatment regimen. Despite initial treatments with corticosteroids, hydroxychloroquine, doxycycline, and minoxidil, her condition worsened. However, 4 months after starting pioglitazone, she showed remarkable hair density improvement and resolution of symptoms. This case suggests that pioglitazone, known for its immunomodulating properties, may be effective in promoting hair regrowth in cicatricial alopecia, warranting further investigation into its mechanisms and potential as a treatment option.

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