Reversible alopecia universalis secondary to PEG-interferon alpha-2b and ribavirin combination therapy in a patient with chronic hepatitis C virus infection

• Published in: European journal of gastroenterology & hepatology Vol. 19; no. 9; p. 817
• Main Authors: Kartal, Elif Doyuk, Alpat, Saygn Nayman, Ozgunes, Ilhan, Usluer, Gaye
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: England 01.09.2007
• Subjects: Adult; Alopecia Areata - chemically induced; Alopecia Areata - pathology; Antiviral Agents - adverse effects; Antiviral Agents - therapeutic use; Drug Eruptions - etiology; Drug Eruptions - pathology; Drug Therapy, Combination; Female; Hepatitis C, Chronic - drug therapy; Humans; Interferon-alpha - adverse effects; Interferon-alpha - therapeutic use; Polyethylene Glycols; Recombinant Proteins; Ribavirin - adverse effects; Ribavirin - therapeutic use
• ISSN: 0954-691X
• DOI: 10.1097/MEG.0b013e32818b27e5

Combined treatment with pegylated interferon (PEG-IFN) and ribavirin is currently recommended for the treatment of chronic hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection. Many side effects including hair disorders have, however, been reported related to this treatment. Alopecia universalis is a severe form of hair disorder. Three cases of alopecia universalis during PEG-IFN and ribavirin combination therapy have been reported in the literature. Herein is reported a case of reversible alopecia universalis, with complete hair loss extending to the whole body, secondary to PEG-IFN alpha-2b and ribavirin combination therapy for chronic HCV infection. Hair regrowth began within 3 months of the completion of combined therapy. In case the liver disease is advanced, and virologic response occurs, treatment can still be completed, as it appears that these side effects are reversible.