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

Abstract

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.

• Authors: Elif Doyuk Kartal, Saygn Nayman Alpat, Ilhan Ozgunes, Gaye Usluer
• Journal: European journal of gastroenterology & hepatology (Eur J Gastroenterol Hepatol) Vol. 19 Issue 9 Pg. 817-20 (Sep 2007) ISSN: 0954-691X [Print] England
• PMID: 17700271 (Publication Type: Case Reports, Journal Article)

Chemical References

• Antiviral Agents
• Interferon alpha-2
• Interferon-alpha
• Recombinant Proteins
• Polyethylene Glycols
• Ribavirin
• peginterferon alfa-2b

Topics

• Adult
• Alopecia Areata (chemically induced, pathology)
• Antiviral Agents (adverse effects, therapeutic use)
• Drug Eruptions (etiology, pathology)
• Drug Therapy, Combination
• Female
• Hepatitis C, Chronic (drug therapy)
• Humans
• Interferon alpha-2
• Interferon-alpha (adverse effects, therapeutic use)
• Polyethylene Glycols
• Recombinant Proteins
• Ribavirin (adverse effects, therapeutic use)