Br J Dermatol.1981;105(2):145
Decreased lymphocyte reactivity and auto-immunity in alopecia areata.
Friedmann PS.
T lymphocyte numbers and functions were measured in forty-six patients with hair loss associated with alopecia areata and thirty controls. In patients with hair loss, lymphocyte reactivity to extracts of scalp and hair follicles was not detected by 3H thymidine incorporation. 3H Thymidine incorporation by lymphocytes cultured with PPD, Varidase and C. albicans was significantly reduced in cells from patients compared with controls and correlated with the extent of hair loss and the presence of antithyroid antibodies. ….snip.. The relationship of reduced T cell function and auto-immunity to alopecia areata is discussed.
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