Can steroids make alopecia areata worse?

Question

Can steroid injection make alopecia Areata worse??

Jason Emer, MD · Answer

No, it is unlikely that steroids are making your alopecia areata worse.  I would recommend an in-person evaluation. I suggest seeing a hair loss expert  to evaluate and go over your condition and provide you information about your best treatment options. There are great non-invasive options like prp/progesterone and/or hair transplantation. See an expert. Best, Dr. Emer

Benjamin C. Paul, MD · Answer

Alopecia Areata (AA) is an autoimmune hair loss condition that leaves patchy loss and is often reversible. Steroids are a mainstay of treatment. Though anything is possible, I would doubt that this is the cause of further hair loss. My better guess would be that this is progression of AA or you started minoxidil (rogaine) and you are experiencing local advancement to telogen.  Regardless, go back to the person who gave you the steroids for an evaluation and discussion on next steps. Good luck!!

Jeff Donovan, MD, PhD · Answer

No, that would be highly unusual. If alopecia areata is active in can sometimes worsen despite any treatment.

William Rassman, MD (retired) · Answer

Steroids are used for the treatment of alopecia areata, usually locally injected into the diseased skin directly and it usually makes it bettter, not worse

Can steroids make alopecia areata worse?

Answers (4)

Answer: Alopecia areata

Answer: Alopecia areata

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Can steroids make alopecia areata worse?

Answers (4)

Answer: Alopecia areata

Answer: Alopecia areata

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