TLDR Azathioprine can cause severe hair loss and low white blood cell count in lupus patients.
A 45-year-old female with stable systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) experienced severe alopecia and leukopenia after switching to azathioprine (AZA) from mycophenolate mofetil. Initially, she was on mycophenolate mofetil and hydroxychloroquine, but due to stable disease, AZA was introduced. After 6 weeks, she developed severe leukopenia and alopecia, attributed to AZA-induced bone marrow suppression. AZA was discontinued, and her previous medication was resumed, leading to recovery of blood counts and hair regrowth over 3 months. This case highlights the importance of recognizing AZA's potential adverse effects, such as bone marrow suppression and hair loss, in SLE treatment.
15 citations
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January 2014 in “Anais Brasileiros de Dermatologia” Lupus treatment requires a combination of drugs and therapies, with research needed for new options.
30 citations
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September 2005 in “Best Practice & Research Clinical Rheumatology” The document concludes that treating tough skin disease in lupus involves sun protection, steroids, antimalarials, and various other therapies chosen based on individual risks and benefits.
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research Skin
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January 2011 in “Elsevier eBooks” Skin problems are common in Lupus patients and can indicate the disease's severity, requiring specific treatments and lifestyle changes.
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February 2011 in “Biologics: Targets & Therapy” Topical calcineurin inhibitors, especially 0.1% tacrolimus ointment, are effective and well-tolerated for treating cutaneous lupus erythematosus but require more research for standard treatment guidelines.
