Treatment of alopecia areata with dinitrochlorobenzene.

Persistent refractory alopecia areata in 26 patients was treated topically with dinitrochlorobenzene (DNCB). Sixteen patients have had excellent regrowth of hair; three patients could either not be initially sensitized or an adequate allergic contact dermatitis on the scalp did not develop. Two patients discontinued therapy within two months; hair growth did not develop in five patients despite an adequate trial. Augmentation of the T-lymphocyte pool via DNCB sensitization and challenge may become effective therapy for some patients with severe alopecia areata.