BH04: A Global Survey to Assess Laboratory Testing Practices in Alopecia Areata by Hair Specialists

    June 2024 in “ British Journal of Dermatology ”
    Cathal O’Connor, Leila Asfour, Laita Bokhari, George Cotsarelis, C. Cotter, Brittany G. Craiglow, Lara Cutlar, Rachita Dhurat, Ncoza C. Dlova, Isabella Doche, Jeff Donovan, Samantha Eisman, Daniel Fernandes Melo, Matthew Harries, Maria Hordinsky, Ahmed Kazmi, Brett King, Nekma Meah, Manabu Ohyama, Julya Ovcharenko, Rodrigo Primez, Bianca Maria Piraccini, Lidia Rudnicka, David Saceda Corralo, Jerry Shapiro, Rod Sinclair, Blake E. Smith, Michela Starace, Sergio Vañó‐Galván, Kevin Lei Wang, Katherine York, Ian A. McDonald, Dmitri Wall
    TLDR Dermatologists vary widely in testing practices for alopecia areata, often exceeding guideline recommendations.
    The study surveyed 130 dermatologists specializing in hair disorders from 14 countries to assess the practice of laboratory testing in alopecia areata (AA). Despite international guidelines suggesting that investigations are unnecessary for asymptomatic patients, there is significant variation in practice among experts. The survey found that 51.5% of respondents routinely performed screening blood tests for coexisting autoimmune illnesses, while 39.2% screened for contributory conditions like nutritional deficiencies. Before starting systemic therapies, a high percentage of dermatologists ordered various tests, including full blood counts and liver function tests. The study highlights the variability in real-world practices and suggests a need for renewed discussion on laboratory testing in AA.
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