Breakthrough Treatment: Topical Metformin Restores Hair in Severe Alopecia as per new Case study
Portugal: Central Centrifugal Cicatricial Alopecia (CCCA) presents a challenging condition for dermatologists, often resulting in permanent hair loss among individuals of African descent. Recent studies have explored novel treatments, including topical metformin, demonstrating promising results in halting disease progression and stimulating hair regrowth.
A recent case report published in the International Journal of Dermatology implied that topical metformin 10% compounded cream might be a safe and effective adjunct therapy for patients with CCCA.
A 54-year-old African woman with a history of hypertension was presented to the outpatient department due to significant hair loss affecting the central area of her scalp for the past three years. On examination, alopecia was noted in the vertex region with a negative traction test. Trichoscopy revealed marked perifollicular scaling and whitish-gray perifollicular halos.
Histopathological examination showed concentric laminated fibrosis around pilosebaceous units with sebaceous gland atrophy and moderate lymphocytic inflammatory infiltrate in the dermis, consistent with a diagnosis of central centrifugal cicatricial alopecia in phase 3b. Initially, the patient declined treatment with intralesional corticosteroids and received minoxidil 5% lotion and topical clobetasol 0.05% twice daily, with no improvement after 14 months. Subsequently, the doctors discontinued the topical clobetasol ointment and initiated the once-daily application of topical metformin 10% cream in combination with minoxidil 5% lotion twice daily.
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