Immunopathological studies on alopecia areata.

Anti-endothelial cell antibodies could be removed from circulating lymphocytes by means of acid elution techniques in eight patients with different degrees of alopecia areata. These antibodies were specifically directed against the endothelial cells in the capillary network of the hair bulb, indicating the existence of an antigen, which is unique to these particular endothelial cells. These antibodies do not bind complement "in vitro" and are species-specific. Circulating ANA (speckled type) were only noticed in case with alopecia areata in spots. A significant decrease in circulating T cells was noticed in six of eight patients with a certain degree of alopecia.