Combination Treatment of Extensive and Recalcitrant Alopecia Areata with Oral and Topical Steroids and Topical Minoxidil: An Open-Label Study of Efficacy and Safety in Pediatric Patients

The study assessed the efficacy and safety of a combination treatment for extensive and recalcitrant alopecia areata (AA) in 16 pediatric patients aged 6-15 years. The treatment involved oral and topical steroids with topical minoxidil. Results indicated a good response in cases of extensive AA and ophiasis, but not in alopecia totalis or universalis. The regimen was well-tolerated with mild side effects and few relapses. The study concluded that this treatment approach could be a reasonable option for pediatric patients with severe AA, allowing for rapid reduction of oral steroid doses while maintaining cosmetic results and minimizing side effects.