ABOUT AUTOIMMUNE
CONDITIONS
by Tony Pearce RN.
Specialist Trichologist, National Trichology
Services
Autoimmune problems are similar in
that they affect people with an inherited
predisposition to develop them, and are triggered
into activation by some initiating factor. Different
autoimmune conditions are also frequently seen
within related members of extended families. These
families are referred to as “atopic”, meaning that
they have a genetically inherited hypersensitivity
to certain foods, chemicals, and/or their general
environment.
Autoimmune problems can involve any
system, organ or tissue of our body, and the scalp
is commonly affected. Conditions such as psoriasis
may only involve the cells of the outer skin,
leaving the hair relatively unscathed. Some may
influence both, causing hair loss of usually a
temporary nature - alopecia areata being one
example. Still others “scar” the skin destroying
hair follicles and other underlying skin appendages
as they progress. These are collectively termed
“ciccatricial” alopecia and include folliculitis
decalvans, pseudopelade, lichen planoplanarus, and
‘lupus’ (discoid type). Permanent hair loss
results from cicatricial alopecia.
It is now thought that certain primary
factors – some linked to the person’s blood type –
activate an autoimmune disorder. One such factor may
be severe or prolonged physical/emotional stress and
anxiety. At these times the body’s complex hormonal
pathway for dealing with stress can become
hypersensitive and dysfunctional, leading to an
exaggerated stress response. Systemic illness or
infections - including the body’s reaction to the
causative organisms, the taking of certain
medications, food allergies, or contact with
substances not previously exposed to may also
trigger an autoimmune disorder in a susceptible
person.
Most of the autoimmune problems that affect the hair
and scalp can now be treated and at least stabilised
by a variety of therapies, which are often used in
combination.
Current treatments for alopecia areata involve the
use of ‘immunomodulators’ alone or in combination
with biologic response modifiers such as Minoxidil
topical solution. An immunomodulator suppresses or
increases the body’s immune response either locally
or systemically.
Corticosteroid injections,lotions or tablets, as
well as contact sensitisers (Anthralin, DPCP) are
the common immunomodulators. "Next generation"
topical immunomodulators such as 'Protopic' or 'Prograf'
(tacrolimus) are gaining increasing favour with
Dermatologists for the treatment of intractable
alopecia and psoriasis.
Minoxidil is the only topical
solution medically approved to stimulate follicle
hair growth. 5-10% strength prescription formulas
that are propylene glycol-free and contain
absorption additives/androgen blockers are usually
more effective, and with less potential side effects
than the commercially purchased brands.
L-tyrosine amino acid is also an immunomodulation
therapy that trichologists have successfully used in
treating autoimmune diseases that affect the hair
and scalp. Tyrosine helps reduce the skin’s
neuropeptides, which in turn decreases lymphocytic
(white blood cell) infiltrate surrounding the hair
follicle.
Whilst Tyrosine is considered a very safe oral
supplement, it’s contra-indicated in persons with a
history of epilepsy. Migraine headache sufferers are
advised to use caution as Tyrosine can induce
headaches in some and relieve them in others.
Active Folliculitis Decalvans is often accompanied
by severe inflammatory reaction and pustular
eruptions across the scalp. In susceptible people
it’s thought their skin initiates an exaggerated
immune response to the toxins of Staphylococcus
Aureus bacteria. Medical practitioners will
often prescribe topical and oral combinations of
antibiotics to treat this form of scarring alopecia.
Photo-biotherapy such as “soft” laser light can also
promote an immunomodulating response. These are
non-UV light sources, and their treatment
potential for autoimmune conditions is continuing to
be evaluated.
About the Author: Tony Pearce is a Specialist
Trichologist & Registered Nurse. He is a founding
member of the Society for Progressive Trichology &
the official lecturer for Analytical Reference
Laboratory (ARL) for hair loss & hormone imbalance.
In Australia he can be contacted on +61 2 9542 2700,
or through his website at
www.hairlossclinic.com.au.
Copyright Anthony Pearce
Copyright
Anthony Pearce 2005. *References for this article
available on request
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