[Thymopentin in alopecia areata]

Alopecia areata is a common cause of hair loss which leads to localized bald areas predominantly on the scalp. Etiological factors are not clear yet, but it is generally considered as a consequence of an autoimmune process. Histological findings revealed perifollicular infiltration of T-cells and antigen-presenting cells. Autoreactive T-cells are reported to amplify this abnormality by interacting with follicular epithelium. There is no effective treatment available at the moment. We report on a 53-year old climacteric woman who developed a bald lesion on her scalp spontaneously in november 1995. Alopecia areata was documented before and after therapy. Treatment with thymopentin 50 mg subcutaneously was offered successfully for 10 weeks, while continuing hormone replacement therapy. Other therapeutical strategies did not proof to be successful before.