Effects of age and sex on the comorbidities of alopecia areata: A cross-sectional hospital-based study.

BACKGROUND AND AIMS: Alopecia areata (AA) is a common autoimmune nonscarring hair disorder with strong genetic links. It seems to be associated with several comorbidities affecting the AA treatment plan. On the other hand, the prevalence of comorbidities in different populations can be different based on genetic differences. This study aimed to clarify the association between age and sex with various comorbidities in AA patients.

METHODS

This cross-sectional study was conducted on 402 patients suffering from AA referred to our hospitals between 2018 and 2021. The clinical records of the patients were reviewed, including demographic and clinical information.

RESULTS

The most common diseases associated with AA were anxiety (36%), dermatitis (30%), hypothyroidism (9%), hyperlipidemia (5%), and vitamin D deficiency (4%). The most common comorbidities in AA patients over 18 years were allergic rhinitis, psychological problems, diabetes, hypertension, and hypothyroidism (p < 0.05). Hypothyroidism was more common in female patients than in male patients (p = 0.002). In contrast, hyperlipidemia was more common in male patients than in female patients (p = 0.024). There was a significant association between the severity of AA and hyperlipidemia and vitiligo (p = 0.003 and 0.045).

CONCLUSION

Sex and age could affect comorbidities. The prevalence of hypothyroidism was higher in our study; it was higher in women than in men. Thyroid function tests were recommended for AA patients.