Treatments for Alopecia Areata: A Network Meta-Analysis

The document outlined a protocol for a network meta-analysis to evaluate the comparative effectiveness and safety of various treatments for alopecia areata (AA), including patchy alopecia, alopecia totalis, and alopecia universalis. The study aimed to rank treatments based on their effectiveness and safety, using data from randomized controlled trials (RCTs). Treatments reviewed included local and systemic corticosteroids, immunosuppressants, biological agents, topical immunotherapy, and hair growth stimulants like minoxidil. The primary outcomes were significant hair regrowth and incidence of serious adverse events, with secondary outcomes including quality of life and long-term hair regrowth sustainability. The analysis planned to use statistical methods to handle different study designs and missing data, with the goal of providing a comprehensive evaluation to guide clinical decisions in managing AA.