Comparison of Efficacy of Various Topical Treatment Modalities in Alopecia Areata

Abstract

BACKGROUND:Alopecia areata is one of the common causes of localized hair loss. Alopecia areata can have spontaneous remission or can follow unpredictable course with exacerbation. Due to which it can be a cause of cosmetic concern for the patient. AIM: To know the efficacy of various topical treatment modalities in Alopecia areata. METHODS: 100 patients presenting with alopecia areata to the dermatology outpatient department of Basaveshwar Teaching and General Hospital and Sangameshwar Hospital, Gulbarga, 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. Patients were randomly distributed into four treatment groups -A, B, C, D. Group. A were treated with 0.05% Betamethasone Dipropionate cream applied twice daily, Group. B were treated with 2% Minoxidil solution applied 1ml twice daily, Group. C was treated with 1.15% Anthralin ointment applied daily for 15 minutes and Group. D were treated with 0.03% Tacrolimus applied twice daily to the affected areas. 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. CONCLUSION: The study concluded that topical 0.05% betamethasone dipropionate is the most effective topical treatment modality in patients with alopecia areata.