Patterns of Misdiagnosis in Adults With Alopecia Areata: An Analysis Using the NIH All of Us Database

This study analyzed the NIH All of Us database to explore patterns of misdiagnosis in 984 patients with alopecia areata (AA). It found that women were significantly more likely to be misdiagnosed than men, with an odds ratio of 1.58, and required more visits before receiving an AA diagnosis. The study also highlighted racial disparities, with the "Other" racial category receiving more nonspecific misdiagnoses, potentially delaying targeted treatment. Despite no significant racial differences in timing or frequency of misdiagnoses, individuals with skin of color were more likely to receive broad, nonspecific diagnoses. The findings emphasize the need for improved diagnostic resources to address these disparities. Limitations include reliance on medical record codes and small sample sizes.