Interleukin-2 receptor alpha-chain expression in patients with alopecia areata.

Interleukin-2 (IL-2) is a lymphokine produced by activated T-cells. Its receptor, IL-2R, is expressed on T-cells. Several clinical and experimental findings point towards IL-2 as a crucial mediator inducing immunologic reaction against human follicle in alopecia areata.

Roles of stress, stress perception and trait-anxiety in the onset and course of alopecia areata.

Clinical observations suggest that the nervous system, including psychological factors, can influence the onset and course of alopecia areata (AA). The aim of this study was to determine whether stressful life events, stress perception, and trait-anxiety are risk factors in the onset and course of AA. A group of 45 patients diagnosed with AA and a group of 45 healthy controls were participants in the study.