Quality-of-Life Assessment in Singaporean Children with Alopecia Areata

Abstract

Introduction: Alopecia areata (AA) is an autoimmune dermatological disorder characterized by nonscarring hair loss. Its chronic and visible nature can negatively impact the quality of life (QoL) of patients with the condition. There has been a lack of studies on the QoL of pediatric patients with AA, especially from Asian countries. Objectives: This study aims to evaluate the impact of AA on the QoL of pediatric patients in Singapore. Methods: Between 2016 and 2017, 25 patients with AA were recruited to complete three questionnaires: Children’s Dermatology Life Quality Index (CDLQI), Family Dermatology Life Quality Index (FDLQI), and Pediatric Alopecia Areata Quality of Life Index. The results of these questionnaires were subsequently analyzed. Results: All three questionnaires had a broad range of responses, but scores were generally low, suggesting AA does not have a large impact on the QoL of our participants and their families. Two factors were identified to have resulted in better outcomes: the presence of comorbidity (atopic dermatitis, nail disease, food allergy, and allergic rhinitis) on the CDLQI and the presence of allergic rhinitis on the FDLQI. On the other hand, a later age of onset resulted in higher FDLQI scores. Conclusions: Similar to findings of other studies, the QoL of pediatric patients with AA is generally good, and clinical severity does not equate to worse QoL. Further studies are useful to provide more holistic care for the patient and their caregivers, involving both medical and psychosocial interventions.

Keywords

• alopecia areata
• pediatric
• quality of life