Prevalence, Comorbidities, and Treatment Patterns of Japanese Patients with Alopecia Areata: A Descriptive Study Using Japan Medical Data Center Claims Database

November 2022 in “ The Journal of Dermatology ”

Eduardo Campos‐Alberto, Tomohiro Hirose, Lynne Napatalung, Manabu Ohyama

alopecia areata topical corticosteroids systemic corticosteroids antihistamines autoimmune diseases vitiligo thyroid diseases atopic dermatitis allergic rhinitis asthma depression anxiety Down syndrome

TLDR Alopecia areata is becoming more common in Japan, with a need for better treatments, especially for severe and pediatric cases.

This study examined the prevalence, comorbidities, and treatment patterns of alopecia areata (AA) in Japan using data from over 10 million patients between 2012 and 2019. It found that AA prevalence increased from 0.16% to 0.27%, with a higher occurrence in females and adults. Common comorbidities included atopic diseases, depression, and anxiety. Treatments mainly involved corticosteroids, which had limited success, particularly in severe cases. The study emphasized the psychological impact of AA and the need for comprehensive management strategies, highlighting the association with autoimmune diseases and the necessity for more effective and safe therapies, especially for severe and pediatric cases.

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