Medical Discovery News
Science permeates everyday life. Yet the understanding of advances in biomedical science is limited at best. Few people make the connection that biomedical science is medicine and that biomedical scientists are working today for the medicine of tomorrow. Our weekly five-hundred-word newspaper column (http://www.illuminascicom.com/) and two-minute radio show provide insights into a broad range of biomedical science topics. Medical Discovery News is dedicated to explaining discoveries in biomedical research and their promise for the future of medicine. Each release is designed to stimulate listeners to think, question and appreciate how science affects their health as well as that of the rest of the world. We also delve into significant biomedical discoveries and portray how science (or the lack of it) has impacted health throughout history.
Medical Discovery News
Alopecia Gene
988 Alopecia Gene
Welcome to Medical Discovery News. I’m Dr Norbert Herzog.
And I’m Dr. David Niesel
Hair loss is tough, but for people with alopecia areata, it’s even harder. The autoimmune disease causes hair to fall out in patches, leaving many to rely on wigs or hair toppers.
But now, a new treatment offers hope - a chance at a full head of hair. The disease can affect people differently. Some suffer complete hair loss on the scalp; others have no hair on their entire body.
Diffuse alopecia causes thinning all over, while ophiasis alopecia only affects hair along the back and sides of the scalp.
About seven million Americans, regardless of race, have it. Most are in their twenties and thirties. Even children can get it. Other symptoms include nail pitting, scalp itching, and changes in hair color and texture.
Several years ago, a drug called deuruxolitinib showed strong results in clinical trials. Then last year, the FDA approved it.
Today, several similar drugs are available. They inhibit a signaling molecule called Janus kinase which then reduces inflammation and immune cell attack on hair follicles, allowing hair to regrow.
The drug doesn’t cure the disease, so hair loss returns when patients stop taking it. Still, about half the people see great results, given enough time.
Common side effects include GI issues, headache, acne, and higher blood pressure and cholesterol. However, there are some serious side effects include heart attacks and stroke, cancer, and serious infections.
Long-term follow-up is still needed, but it’s a breakthrough for people longing to restore their looks.
We are Drs. David Niesel and Norbert Herzog, at UTMB and Quinnipiac University, where biomedical discoveries shape the future of medicine. For much more and our disclaimer go to medicaldiscoverynews.com or listen to our podcast on your favorite podcast service.
