Emotional Burden and Current Management Practices in Pediatric Alopecia Areata: An Online Survey Among Physicians

January 2025 in “ JDDG Journal der Deutschen Dermatologischen Gesellschaft ”

Andria Constantinou, Mona Prendke, Agathe Franz, Kathrin Hillmann, Ulrike Blume‐Peytavi

alopecia areata pediatric alopecia areata alopecia totalis alopecia universalis topical corticosteroids psychological support targeted treatments AA corticosteroids

Studysummary This study surveyed German dermatologists about treating children and adolescents with alopecia areata, revealing significant emotional challenges like bullying and low self-esteem, dissatisfaction with available treatments, and a need for both psychological support and new therapeutic guidelines.

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

The study surveyed 76 physicians from the German Dermatological Society to assess the management practices and emotional burden of pediatric alopecia areata (AA) in Germany. It found that affected children often face significant emotional challenges, including bullying, social withdrawal, anxiety, depressive moods, and self-harm. Most physicians treated 1-50 pediatric AA patients annually, primarily using topical corticosteroids, but many were dissatisfied with the effectiveness of current treatments. The study emphasizes the need for improved treatment guidelines and comprehensive approaches that include psychological support, as well as future research into targeted therapies and the genetic and immunological aspects of AA.

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Research cited in this study

4 / 4 results

Physician and Patient-Reported Severity and Quality of Life Impact of Alopecia Areata: Results from a Real-World Survey in Five European Countries

research Physician and Patient-Reported Severity and Quality of Life Impact of Alopecia Areata: Results from a Real-World Survey in Five European Countries

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This study conducted in Europe found that both physicians and patients generally agreed on the severity of alopecia areata, with higher physician-rated severity linked to increased patient-reported burdens such as anxiety, depression, and work impairment.

research Quality of Life in Children and Adolescents With Alopecia Areata: A Systematic Review

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This review found that alopecia areata significantly impairs quality of life, particularly through embarrassment and self-consciousness, in children and adolescents.

research Anxiety, Depression, and Quality of Life in Children and Adults With Alopecia Areata: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

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This study found that people with alopecia areata have a higher likelihood of experiencing anxiety and depression, and a moderate negative impact on their quality of life compared to healthy individuals.

research Alopecia Areata: Current Understanding and Management

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This review discusses current and emerging therapies for alopecia areata, highlights the challenges in managing this chronic disease, and emphasizes the importance of addressing its psychosocial impacts; it reports no new clinical results.