Evaluation of Serum Homocysteine, High-Sensitivity CRP, and RBC Folate in Patients with Alopecia Areata

This study evaluated serum homocysteine, high-sensitivity CRP, and RBC folate levels in 29 patients with alopecia areata (AA) and 32 healthy controls. It found that patients with AA had significantly lower levels of RBC folate compared to controls, with even lower levels observed in those with more extensive forms of the disease, such as alopecia totalis or universalis. Additionally, a negative correlation was observed between RBC folate levels and the severity of AA, as measured by the SALT score. However, no significant differences were found in serum homocysteine and blood high-sensitivity CRP levels between the two groups.