Original Article

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Year: 2025 I Volume: 7 I Issue: 2I Pages I 

 

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Minoxidil Induced Allergic Contact Dermatitis in a Young Woman with Subclinical Hypothyroidism and Micronutrient Deficiencies: A Case Report

Vidhyashree Ballagere Hanumanthaiah 1

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1 Harsha College of Pharmacy, India

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* Corresponding Author: Vidhyashree Ballagere Hanumanthaiah

Email address: vidhyashreebh@gmail.com

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Source of funding:  None to declare

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Conflict of interest: None

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Submission date: 12 June 2025

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Acceptance date:  30 June 2025

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Key words: Minoxidil, Allergic Contact Dermatitis, Patch Testing, Propylene Glycol, Alopecia, Hypothyroidism 

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Abstract:

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Background: Topical minoxidil remains a cornerstone treatment for androgenetic alopecia and other alopecias, but cutaneous adverse effects, particularly allergic contact dermatitis (ACD), are increasingly recognized. Although propylene glycol (PG) has long been considered the main culprit, recent high-quality evidence suggests that minoxidil itself is more often responsible. Case Presentation: We report the case of a 28-year-old female with subclinical hypothyroidism, iron deficiency anemia, and vitamin B12 and D deficiencies who developed delayed ACD after prolonged use of 5% topical minoxidil solution. After approximately 50 days of therapy, she experienced pruritus of the ears, followed within five days by an erythematous, pruritic rash on the face, neck, and back. Minoxidil was discontinued immediately, and the patient initiated self-treatment with cetirizine and moisturizers, later receiving physician-prescribed antihistamines and topical calamine. The dermatitis resolved completely within one week without corticosteroid use. Conclusion: Clinicians should maintain a high index of suspicion for minoxidil-induced ACD, especially when dermatitis extends beyond the scalp. Early recognition, withdrawal of the offending agent, and supportive management are key to preventing progression and ensuring adherence to hair loss therapies.