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[DNCB therapy for alopecia areata (author's transl)]
Dermatologica
|January 1, 1980
Summary
Local application of DNCB induced hair growth in most alopecia areata patients, particularly those with less extensive disease. However, its use raises safety concerns, suggesting the need for alternative treatments.
Area of Science:
- Dermatology
- Immunology
Background:
- Alopecia areata is an autoimmune condition causing hair loss.
- DNCB (2,4-dinitrochlorobenzene) has been explored as a topical treatment for alopecia areata.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the efficacy and safety of topical DNCB in treating various forms of alopecia areata.
Main Methods:
- 15 patients with alopecia areata (totalis, fere totalis, common) received local DNCB in acetone for 3-9 months.
- Treatment response was assessed based on hair regrowth.
Main Results:
- Hair growth was induced in all patients with alopecia areata and alopecia areata fere totalis.
- Only 2 of 9 patients with alopecia areata totalis responded well; children showed less effectiveness.
- Contact allergy developed in all but one patient; DNCB's mutagenicity is a concern.
Conclusions:
- Topical DNCB can induce hair regrowth in alopecia areata, with response correlating to disease extension rather than duration.
- Safety concerns, including mutagenicity, necessitate exploring alternative haptens for alopecia areata treatment.