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Alopecia and nail changes associated with voriconazole therapy
Anurag N Malani1, Lisa Kerr2, Janet Obear3
1Department of Internal Medicine Section of Infectious Diseases.
Summary
Voriconazole treatment for fungal infections can cause significant hair loss (alopecia) and nail changes in many patients. Fortunately, hair loss often stops and regrows after discontinuing the antifungal medication.
Area of Science:
- Infectious Diseases
- Dermatology
- Pharmacology
Background:
- Voriconazole is an antifungal medication recommended for specific fungal infections.
- Alopecia and nail changes are not widely recognized side effects of voriconazole.
- An increase in hair loss was observed in patients treated with voriconazole.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine the prevalence and characteristics of alopecia associated with voriconazole therapy.
- To investigate the occurrence of nail changes in patients receiving voriconazole.
Main Methods:
- A survey was administered to patients receiving voriconazole for at least one month.
- The survey collected data on alopecia and nail changes.
- Follow-up questions assessed hair loss reversal after voriconazole discontinuation.
Main Results:
- 82% of surveyed patients reported alopecia, with scalp hair loss being most common.
- Nail changes or loss occurred in 70% of patients.
- Hair loss typically began around 75 days after starting voriconazole, with most experiencing cessation and regrowth after stopping the drug.
Conclusions:
- Alopecia and nail changes are frequent adverse effects of voriconazole.
- These side effects were noted during a multistate fungal outbreak.
- The findings highlight the importance of monitoring for dermatological side effects during voriconazole treatment.
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