Volunteers needed for alopecia areata clinical trial

Alopecia areata (AA) is an autoimmune disorder that causes hair loss and is estimated to affect 6 to 7 million individuals in the U.S. and up to 147 million people worldwide. It is particularly devastating for adolescents with a significant impact on their psychological health.

UTHealth Houston’s Department of Dermatology Clinical Trial Research Team is conducting a one-year clinical trial investigating 5% squaric acid as a topical treatment for alopecia areata in children 12-17 years of age. Squaric acid is a topically applied clear solution that may cause localized itching at the site, which draws suppressor cells that ultimately results in the inhibition of autoimmune activity against the hair follicles, leading to regrowth.

In this study, two-thirds of participants will receive the active ingredient (squaric acid), and one third will receive placebo for the first four months. After four months, all study participants will receive the active ingredient.

Parking is free at the facility. Please call 713-500-8278 for more information about the clinical trial or if you have any questions.