Clinical Characteristics and Prognostic Factors in Early-Onset Alopecia Totalis and Alopecia Universalis

This study examined 287 patients with alopecia totalis (AT) and alopecia universalis (AU), focusing on early-onset (before age 13) versus late-onset cases. It found that early-onset patients, especially those with AU, were more likely to have a family history of alopecia areata (AA), nail dystrophy, and atopic dermatitis, as well as a higher incidence of comorbid disorders, particularly allergic diseases. Treatment with steroids and immunotherapy did not significantly affect the long-term hair condition. The study concluded that early-onset AU with a family history of AA had a worse prognosis, emphasizing the need for comprehensive evaluations due to the higher incidence of comorbid diseases.