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

April 2024 in “ Dermatology and therapy ”

Michela Starace, Francesca Pampaloni, E. Lazaridou, Eirini Kyrmanidou, Alexander J. Stratigos, Aimilios Lallas, Alexander Katoulis, Dimitrios Sgouros, Federico Quadrelli, Luca Rapparini, Stephano Cedirian, Francesca Bruni, Lorenzo Ala, Alfredo Rossi, Bianca Maria Piraccini, Zoé Apalla

alopecia areata AA trichoscopy topical steroids patchy AA clinical practice guidelines severity scores quality of life impact scales

Studysummary This study surveyed dermatologists in Greece and Italy and found significant variability and challenges in the diagnosis and treatment of alopecia areata, including limited use of severity scores and diverse treatment approaches, particularly for special site involvement and chronic cases.

Our plain-language summary. Not medical advice or a treatment recommendation. Consult a qualified healthcare professional before changing treatment. Full disclaimer

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.

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