Current Diagnostic and Therapeutic Practices in Alopecia Areata in Two Mediterranean Countries: A Survey-Based Study

A survey-based study involving 724 dermatologists from Greece and Italy revealed significant variability and gaps in the diagnosis and treatment of alopecia areata (AA). Despite AA affecting about 2% of the population and causing considerable psychosocial distress, clinical practice guidelines remain inadequate. Diagnosis typically relies on patient history and clinical examination, with trichoscopy as a supportive tool. However, the use of severity scores and quality of life impact scales is low. Topical steroids are the primary treatment for patchy AA in both adults and children, but there is notable heterogeneity in managing special site involvement, chronic cases, and pediatric patients. The findings underscore the ongoing challenges in AA management.