Dermatology Online Journal · 2010 · 20 citations · 0 references
MedicineDermatologyImmunologyAutoimmunityImmunopathologyInflammationAutoimmune DiseasesAutoimmune InflammationAutoimmune Skin DiseasesInflammatory DermatosesInflammatory Skin DiseasesInflammatory Skin DisordersAutoinflammatory Skin DiseaseDrug-induced AlopeciaFollicular InflammationOff-label Drug Toxicity
Infliximab, a chimeric monoclonal anti-TNF-alfa agent used to treat autoimmune diseases, has shown a paradoxical side effect in the development of autoimmunity. We describe a case of alopecia areata universalis associated with infliximab treatment in a patient with Behçet disease. This case suggests a complex and contradictory role of TNF-α in the pathogenesis of alopecia areata.