Comparative Study of Trichoscopic Features of Alopecia Areata between Adults and Children and between Different Body Parts (Scalp, Beard, Eyebrow, and Moustache)

Abstract

Background: 

Round patches of baldness on the scalp or entire body are typically caused by the common, non-scarring hair loss condition known as alopecia areata (AA). Follicular units with two to four terminal hairs and one or two vellus hairs can be seen on a healthy, typical scalp trichoscopy.

Aim of the Study: 

To compare trichoscopic features between adults and children and between different body parts.

Patients and Methods: 

A cross-sectional observational study was performed on 90 patients; AA of the scalp and other body parts attended the dermatology out-patient clinic. A Gen Dermlite D100 Dermoscope was used to examine AA lesions and compare their features according to age and different body parts.

Results: 

Scalp was the most common area among all patients, 65.6% (among adults, it was 50%, and among children, it was 85%), with a significant difference, P = 0.001. The most common trichoscopic feature among all patients was empty follicular opening in 74 (82.2%) lesions; among children, it was honeycomb pigment in 35 (87.5%) lesions, while among adults, it was empty follicular opening in 40 (80%) lesions. Tulip hair was significantly higher among adults, P = 0.036. At the same time, honeycomb pigment patterns and pohlpinkus constriction were significantly higher among children, P = 0.044 and P < 0.001, respectively.

Conclusion: 

The most common trichoscopic feature of adult lesions was empty follicular opening, while honeycomb pigment was dominant among children. Tulip hair was higher among adults, while honeycomb pigment patterns and pohlpinkus constriction were higher among children.