ALOPECIAAREATAAND TRICHOSCOPY: AN OBSERVATIONAL STUDY

Abstract

Background: Alopecia areata (AA) is a common type of non-scarring alopecia. Genetic predisposition, autoimmunity, and environmental factors play a major role in the etiopathogenesis of AA. Trichoscopy is a simple and a non invasive technique used to detect various types of scalp and hair disorders. It is a simple bed side test which avoids unnecessary biopsies, besides diagnosing the condition it also helps in determining the treatment response. Aim and Objectives: To determine the various trichoscopic findings in alopecia areata. Materials and Methods: 50 patients with clinically diagnosed alopecia areata were enrolled for the present study. Trichoscopy was done using a digital microscope system in both non polarized and polarized modes after obtaining written informed consent. Result: Most common trichoscopic finding was yellow dots seen in 86% followed by short vellus hairs seen in 76%, broken hair in 60% and black dots in 44% patients respectively.