IL-17 inhibition: is it the long-awaited savior for alopecia areata?

Abstract

Interleukin-17 (IL-17) has been implicated in the pathogenesis of a large number of inflammatory and autoimmune conditions, including skin disorders such as psoriasis. Recently, much data have accumulated on the possible role of IL-17 in the pathogenesis of alopecia areata (AA). In this review, the available information on the connection between AA and IL-17 is described. While IL-17 levels are consistently reported to be elevated in the serum and lesional skin of AA patients, there is no clear connection between IL-17 levels and disease severity or duration. Some evidence has suggested an association between IL-17 and an early-onset disease, although this awaits further confirmation. While there is enough information to support clinical trials with IL-17-targeted treatments, it is possible that they will be effective only in a subset of AA patients. Further studies are warranted to better delineate the exact role of IL-17 in AA pathogenesis.

Ixekizumab-induced alopecia areata

“…Our patient with plaque psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis on the interleukin (IL)-17A inhibitor ixekizumab had AA, which resolved after discontinuation of the drug. This observation was unexpected, as reports of elevated intralesional and serum IL-17 levels in AA patients have led to the investigation of IL-17A inhibitors as a potential therapy in the disease, although the results to date have not been promising 3 . Although there have not been previous reports of ixekizumab causing AA, there have been 2 reports involving the other IL-17A inhibitors, secukinumab and brodalumab.…”

Alopecia Diffusa while Using Interleukin-17 Inhibitors against Psoriasis Vulgaris

“…From a pathogenetic viewpoint, IL-17 and its main source of T helper (Th)17 cells are one of the critical inducers of alopecia [1]. Abundant amounts of Th17 cells cause damage of the hair follicle, and high plasma IL-17 levels are detected in patients with alopecia.…”

Udenafil Induces the Hair Growth Effect of Adipose-Derived Stem Cells

“…IL18 is a significant pro-inflammatory cytokine that is present in high levels in AA patients (Celik and Ates, 2018). Recent data have suggested the possible role of IL17 in AA pathogenesis (Ramot et al ., 2018). In addition, IL1 is a potent inducer of hair loss and a significant inhibitor of human hair growth in vitro (Hoffmann and Happle, 1995).…”