Clinical trends of scalp alopecia areata: a tertiary care hospital based observational study
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.18203/issn.2455-4529.IntJResDermatol20200607Keywords:
Alopecia areata, Alopecia areata pattern, Alopecia areata nail changes, ScalpAbstract
Background: Alopecia areata is one of the commonest types of non-scarring alopecia involving the scalp and/or body. As there is paucity of recent epidemiological data from our country, this study was conducted to determine the latest clinical and epidemiological trends of scalp alopecia areata.
Methods: A hospital-based observational study consisting of 100 cases of clinically diagnosed scalp alopecia areata who reported to the Dermatology OPD, Dr. D.Y. Patil Medical College, Pune, was conducted for a period of six months. Socio-demographic and clinical information was collected and clinical examination was performed on all patients. The data was evaluated using appropriate statistical methods.
Results: Out of the 100 cases enrolled, males (64%) outnumbered females (36%). The commonest presenting age group was 21-30 years (44%). Disease onset was sudden in 80% patients and 59% cases had a progressive disease course. Majority (75%) had a disease duration of less than 3 months. Majority cases were asymptomatic (80%) with no precipitating factors (90%). Past history and family history of alopecia areata were present in 13% and 9% cases, respectively. Personal and family history of associated diseases were present in 27% and 22% patients, respectively. Most patients had single (61%), patchy (83%) lesions with occiput (45%) being the commonest initial site. Nail changes were present in 22% cases, of which pitting (13%) was the commonest nail finding.
Conclusions: This study reflects the clinical profile of scalp alopecia areata in a tertiary care hospital.
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