Kristine Kucera, PA-C, MPAS, DHS
Alopecia Areata can be challenging due to the limited treatment options available. Recently the Journal of Drugs in Dermatology published a literature review on the potential benefits of cryotherapy for patients with Alopecia. In our daily practice, we use cryotherapy mainly for its destructive property, however, it also exhibits immunomodulatory properties. Studies have shown cryotherapy can reduce IL-17 release and reduce T cell activation through reduced IL-1B/IL-23. The hypothermic effect can also lead to decreased lymphocyte proliferation, cytotoxic T cell function, and expression of interferon-gamma and IL-2. In addition to immunomodulation, it has been suggested that the reactive vasodilation induced by superficial cryotherapy can improve microcirculation in hair follicles leading to increased hair growth. In this review, there were no significant differences in efficacy of cryotherapy compared to other non-biologic treatments (intralesional or topical corticosteroids) but there is some evidence to suggest that cryotherapy could help reduce the likelihood of disease relapse among individuals with alopecia areata.
You can read more about hair loss in earlier blog posts.
Kristine Kucera, PA-C, MPAS, DHS, is Assistant Clinical Professor, University of Texas Southwestern, Medical Center PA Program, Dallas, TX. She is a member of the DEF Advisory Council.
References:
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