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Generalized hypertrichosis after treatment with topical minoxidil
M González1, N Landa, J Gardeazabal
1Department of Dermatology, Hospital de Cruces, Bilbao, Spain.
Clinical and Experimental Dermatology
|March 1, 1994
Summary
Generalized hypertrichosis, a rare side effect of topical minoxidil for alopecia, can occur with excessive application. This abnormal hair growth resolved after discontinuing the medication.
Area of Science:
- Dermatology
- Pharmacology
Background:
- Topical minoxidil is a common treatment for alopecia.
- Generalized hypertrichosis is a known side effect of oral minoxidil but is rare with topical application, typically localized to the application site.
Observation:
- A case study of a 16-year-old girl presenting with diffuse alopecia treated with topical minoxidil.
- The patient applied doses exceeding the prescribed amount.
Findings:
- Generalized hypertrichosis developed in the patient 3 months after initiating topical minoxidil treatment.
- The abnormal hair growth gradually diminished and resolved within 4 months of discontinuing the medication.
Implications:
- This case highlights that excessive application of topical minoxidil can lead to systemic side effects like generalized hypertrichosis.
- Physicians should counsel patients on appropriate dosage to minimize risks of adverse effects.
- Further research may explore the threshold for topical minoxidil dosage that triggers systemic hypertrichosis.