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[Chloroquine-induced achromotrichia. An ultrastructural study]
P H Asch1, P Caussade, C Marquart-Elbaz
1Clinique Dermatologique, Hôpitaux Universitaires de Strasbourg, France.
Annales De Dermatologie Et De Venereologie
|January 1, 1997
Summary
Chloroquine treatment can cause hair graying (achromotrichia) by damaging melanocytes, impairing melanin production. This hair color change is reversible after discontinuing the drug.
Area of Science:
- Dermatology
- Cell Biology
- Toxicology
Background:
- Chloroquine is used to treat conditions like subacute lupus erythematosus.
- Drug-induced achromotrichia (hair graying) is a known side effect of chloroquine.
- The exact mechanism of chloroquine-induced achromotrichia remains unclear.
Observation:
- A 21-year-old patient developed achromotrichia during chloroquine therapy.
- Electron microscopy revealed ultrastructural anomalies in hair root melanocytes.
- Observed anomalies included densified nuclei and accumulation of immature melanosomes.
Findings:
- Melanocytes showed impaired melanin synthesis and melanosome maturation.
- Reduced transfer of melanosomes from melanocytes to keratinocytes was noted.
- Accumulation of immature melanosomes led to inactive melanocytes.
Implications:
- Chloroquine appears to exert a toxic effect on melanocytes.
- These findings suggest a direct impact on melanin production pathways.
- Understanding this mechanism could inform management of drug-induced side effects.