Which statement accurately describes the role of intralesional corticosteroids in localized alopecia areata?

Which statement accurately describes the role of intralesional corticosteroids in localized alopecia areata?

• A. They cause systemic immunosuppression.
• B. They cure the autoimmune disease.
• C. They have no role in alopecia areata.
• D. They reduce local autoimmune attack and promote hair regrowth.

Answer: (D)

Localized alopecia areata is driven by an autoimmune attack, mainly T cells, on hair follicles in patches. Injecting corticosteroids directly into the affected areas delivers a strong anti-inflammatory effect at the site, dampening local cytokine activity and T-cell–mediated attack. With the local immune activity reduced, hair follicles can shift back toward the growth phase and regrow hair in those patches. This approach targets the problem where it matters while minimizing systemic effects, unlike systemic steroids. It’s not a cure for the autoimmune condition, and relapses can occur, but intralesional corticosteroids are a standard, effective option for localized disease.

Localized alopecia areata is driven by an autoimmune attack, mainly T cells, on hair follicles in patches. Injecting corticosteroids directly into the affected areas delivers a strong anti-inflammatory effect at the site, dampening local cytokine activity and T-cell–mediated attack. With the local immune activity reduced, hair follicles can shift back toward the growth phase and regrow hair in those patches. This approach targets the problem where it matters while minimizing systemic effects, unlike systemic steroids. It’s not a cure for the autoimmune condition, and relapses can occur, but intralesional corticosteroids are a standard, effective option for localized disease.