A randomized prospective study to evaluate the efficacy of various topical treatment modalities in patients of alopecia areata

Abstract

Background:Alopecia areata (AA) is one of the common causes of localized hair loss among the patients attending the outpatient department. The objective of this study was to know the clinical and epidemiological profile of AA and to compare the efficacy of different topical treatment modalities in AA.Methods:100 patients of any age group and of both sexes presenting with AA to the dermatology outpatient department were included in this study. It was conducted as a randomized prospective study for a period of 12 weeks after taking an informed consent from the patient. After studying the clinical profile, patients were randomly distributed, excluding the age and sex bias into four treatment groups. Alopecia grading scale (AGS) was calculated at first visit and 12 weeks. Regrowth score (RGS) was calculated at 12 weeks. Treatment outcome in different groups were compared using mean AGS at 12 weeks and RGS.Results:Group A patients showed statistically significant clinical improvement when compared to all the other groups. Poorest response was seen in Group D. Intermediate response was seen in Group B and C patients.Conclusions:The study concluded that topical 0.05% betamethasone dipropionate is the most effective treatment modality in patients with patchy AA (having <25% hair loss).