Vitamin D status in patients with frontal fibrosing alopecia: A retrospective study
Authors: lexis Arasu, MBBS (hons), BMedSc (hons), Nekma Meah, MBChB, MRCP (UK), MRCP (Derm) Samantha Eisman, MBChB, MRCP (UK), Dmitri Wall, MB BCh, MRCP, Rodney Sinclair, MBBS, MD
Summary
Below is a summary of the research study and conclusion in simple terms. For readers with academic or medical interest please see the full study.
Frontal fibrosing alopecia (FFA) is characterized by the recession of the frontal hair line. The condition is complex and dependent on a number of factors, with hormonal, environmental, and genetic factors potentially involved.
Previous research has highlighted the capability of vitamin D to alter the immune response. As a result, facial sunscreen products have been suggested as possible contributors to FFA. Avoidance is recommended by some hair specialists as part of treatment.
The research study aimed to assess the baseline levels of vitamin D in a cohort of patients with FFA.
Read the full research study here: Frontal Fibrosing Alopecia and Vitamin D
Conclusion
Research findings suggest that there may be no additional requirement to measure vitamin D levels in patients with FFA compared to other forms of alopecia
Vitamin D deficiency is unlikely to be a factor in the causes FFA.
The findings neither supports nor disproves an association between the application of facial sunscreen and FFA.
About the Author
Dr Dmitri Wall
Dermatologist
MB BCh BAO RCP
Dr Wall contributes to a number of national and international committees and projects, such as the European Reference Network for Rare and Undiagnosed Skin Disease (ERN Skin), for which he is the eHealth lead, and the British Association of Dermatologists Health Informatics Sub Committee. He has presented regularly at national and international dermatology meetings, such as the American Academy of Dermatology (AAD), British Association of Dermatologists (BAD) and European Academy of Dermatology and Venereology annual meetings.
