Comparative Study Between BCG and Intralesional Steroid Injection in Treatment of Patchy Alopecia Areata
November 2025
in “
QJM
”
Studysummary This study found that both intradermal BCG vaccine and intralesional triamcinolone acetonide were similarly effective for treating patchy alopecia areata, though intralesional triamcinolone was preferable due to fewer side effects associated with BCG vaccine.
Our plain-language summary. Not medical advice or a treatment recommendation. Consult a qualified healthcare professional before changing treatment. Full disclaimer
This study compared the efficacy and safety of intradermal BCG vaccine and intralesional triamcinolone acetonide in treating patchy alopecia areata in 40 patients, divided into two equal groups. Both treatments significantly improved hair regrowth, as indicated by changes in SALT scores and hair counts, with no significant difference in effectiveness between the two. However, the BCG group experienced side effects such as scarring, low-grade fever, and lethargy, while the steroid group had no side effects, making intralesional triamcinolone acetonide the preferable treatment option due to better tolerability.
