Retrospective Analysis of Systemic Corticosteroids for Alopecia Areata in Pediatric Patients

December 2020 in “ Dermatology Archives ”

Shant Tamazian, Rogers Rachel, Castelo-Soccio Leslie

alopecia areata systemic corticosteroids SALT scores hair regrowth pediatric patients AA steroids

Studysummary This study found that pediatric patients with severe alopecia areata showed significant improvement with systemic corticosteroids but typically experienced relapse within 4-5 months, also seeing an increase in weight percentiles.

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

This retrospective study analyzed the efficacy and safety of systemic corticosteroid therapy in 82 pediatric patients with alopecia areata (AA) at the Children's Hospital of Philadelphia. Patients with severe AA (SALT scores ≥ 50) showed significant improvement in hair regrowth after treatment, but most relapsed within 4-5 months. No serious adverse effects were reported, although there was a statistically significant increase in weight percentiles. The study highlighted the temporary effectiveness of systemic steroids in severe cases of AA in children, despite the high relapse rate.

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