Secondary Cutis Verticis Gyrata Induced by Long-Term Use of High-Dose Topical Minoxidil

Minoxidil has been shown to be able to potentiate the mitogenic effects of insulin-like growth factor (IGF-1). Meanwhile, the striking manifestations of acromegaly are due to excessive IGF-1 production by the liver in response to GH stimulation. The growth-promoting properties of IGF-1 trigger soft tissue hypertrophy, and hypertrichosis. Pseudoacromegaly has been reported to be induced by the long-term use of oral minoxidil. This is the first case report of secondary CVG from the use of topical minoxidil for the treatment of male androgenetic alopecia.