Application of Topical Immunotherapy in the Treatment of Alopecia Areata: A Review and Update

March 2021 in “ Drug design, development and therapy ”

Thipprapai Mahasaksiri, Chaninan Kositkuljorn, Tanaporn Anuntrangsee, Poonkiat Suchonwanit

topical immunotherapy diphenylcyclopropenone DPCP alopecia areata contact dermatitis pigmentation abnormalities urticaria erythema multiforme major scalp angioedema

TLDR Topical immunotherapy can treat alopecia areata, but its effectiveness varies and the exact mechanism is unclear.

The review discussed the application of topical immunotherapy, particularly diphenylcyclopropenone (DPCP), in treating alopecia areata, highlighting its effectiveness in inducing hair regrowth by modulating immune responses. Studies, including a large retrospective study with 757 patients, showed positive outcomes with DPCP, though success varied among patients. Side effects such as contact dermatitis, pigmentation abnormalities, urticaria, erythema multiforme major, and scalp angioedema were common. The review emphasized the need for further research to optimize treatment protocols, minimize adverse effects, and understand long-term outcomes. Home-based DPCP treatment was found to be as effective and safe as clinic-based treatment, improving patient compliance.

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