
Abstract Introduction: Alopecia is a dermatological condition characterized by the loss or reduction of hair. Alopecia areata (AA) and androgenetic alopecia (AGA) are fairly common forms of hair loss that can significantly impact person’s quality of life which may lead to loss of self-confidence and distorted body image. This study evaluates the quality of life (QoL) in individuals diagnosed with AA and AGA attending a tertiary centre using the Dermatology Life Quality Index (DLQI) questionnaire. Aim and Objectives: To find out the impact of alopecia areata and androgenetic alopecia on quality of life. Methodology: A cross-sectional observational study was done in a tertiary centre in eastern Bihar. Newly diagnosed patients with AA and AGA presenting to the out-patient department were enrolled in this study who were not on treatment. After taking prior consent and approval from the institutional ethics committee patients were subjected to clinical examination and appropriate investigations, and DLQI questionnaires to evaluate the QoL of the patients. Results: In present study, a total of 72 patients were enrolled among which 41 were males and 31 were females. There were 30 patients of AA and 42 patients of AGA. The commonest age group affected was between 18 - 28 years of age. The mean DLQI score of AA was 7.833 and mean DLQI score of AGA was 9.595. Conclusion: Hair is considered as a symbol of youth, vigour and beauty and untimely loss is associated with psychological impact which, in many may be profound. Both AA and AGA moderately affected the QoL of the patients not only in physiological aspects but also in their emotional and social aspects. Thus, patient - oriented outcomes are important in measuring the burden of disease in order to plan appropriate management to improve the illness and quality of life.
Alopecia, Alopecia Areata, Androgenetic Alopecia, Hair loss, Quality of life
Alopecia, Alopecia Areata, Androgenetic Alopecia, Hair loss, Quality of life
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