Immunological profiles in alopecia areata

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Abstract
Cell-mediated immunity and auto-immune phenomena were investigated in 60 patients with active alopecia areata of various degrees of severity. Serum auto-antibodies to thyroid antigens were detected in 23 patients. Examination of T-lymphocyte populations, lymphocyte DNA synthesis, and lymphokine production in response to mitogen stimulation revealed no differences between the 60 patients and matched healthy control subjects. Patients with thyroid auto-immunity and/or the presence of alopecia totalis or universalis showed significant reductions in interactive T lymphocytes (recognized by rosette formation with human B lymphoblastoid cells) and diminished production of leukocyte migration inhibition factor in response to stimulation with phytohemagglutinin. Immune mechanisms may be involved in the pathogenesis of alopecia areata which is associated with thyroid auto-immunity or which progresses to total hair loss.