Association Between Alopecia Areata and COVID-19: A Systematic Review

February 2022 in “ JAAD International ”

Rachel E. Christensen, Mohammad Jafferany

alopecia areata COVID-19 SARS-CoV-2 autoimmune disease hair loss dermatologic manifestation physical stress psychosocial stress stress

TLDR COVID-19 may be linked to hair loss or worsening of hair loss in some people.

This systematic review analyzed 9 studies out of 402 articles, investigating the link between COVID-19 and alopecia areata, an autoimmune disease causing hair loss. The review found 7 new cases of alopecia areata following confirmed SARS-CoV-2 infection and instances of alopecia areata recurrence or exacerbation in patients with preexisting disease after SARS-CoV-2 infection. The findings suggest that alopecia areata may be a dermatologic manifestation of COVID-19, often appearing 1 to 2 months following infection. However, due to the heterogeneity of the studies and a high proportion of case reports, definitive conclusions cannot be drawn. The review also highlighted the potential exacerbating effects of physical and psychosocial stress on alopecia areata. Further research is needed to better understand the relationship between alopecia areata and COVID-19.

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research Mild-To-Moderate COVID-19 Is Not Associated With Worsening Of Alopecia Areata: A Retrospective Analysis Of 32 Patients

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research Immune Privilege Collapse And Alopecia Development: Is Stress A Factor

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