Clinical presentation and dermoscopic features of alopecia areata patients

Abstract

Objective This study aims to comprehensively investigate the clinical and dermoscopic profiles of AA patients and establish correlations between dermoscopic findings and disease severity. The research was conducted among patients attending the Department of Dermatology, Venereology, and Leprology at the Karnataka Institute of Medical Sciences, Hubballi.   Methods Detailed patient histories and clinical examinations were conducted for the study. Dermoscopic analysis was performed using a handheld dermoscope (IDS-1100), and relevant diagnostic tests were administered for all participants.   Results The study encompassed 100 patients, with an average age of 24.5 years. A male-to-female ratio of 1.2:1 was observed. Predominantly, the patchy type of AA was identified, with the scalp being the most commonly affected area. Notably, fine nail pitting emerged as the predominant nail abnormality. Disease severity distribution revealed 39% with mild, 52% with moderate, and 9% with severe AA. No significant link was established between disease severity and onset age, family history, or atopy. However, nail changes exhibited a significant association with severe AA. Dermoscopically, prevalent patterns included black dots, broken hairs, short vellus hairs, yellow dots, and tapering hairs. Yellow dots demonstrated a positive correlation with AA severity, while other patterns showed no significant associations.   Conclusion Alopecia areata primarily affects the younger population, with a slight male preponderance. Dermoscopic analysis offers insights into AA diagnosis and severity assessment. The most prevalent dermoscopic finding, black dots, is complemented by the positive correlation of yellow dots with disease severity.