Psychological status of patients with alopecia areata

Abstract

Alopecia areata is not painful or life-threatening, but its aesthetic repercussions can lead to profound changes in patients' psychological status and relationships. The psychological status and personality traits of 73 patients and 73 controls were evaluated with the Minnesota Multiphasic Personality Inventory (MMPI-2). Analysis of the MMPI-2 profile showed that scores for some scales (i.e. Depression, Anxiety, Family relationships) were higher for patients with alopecia areata than for controls. Patients with alopecia appeared to experience more depressive, hysterical and anxiety feelings, have more hypochondriac tendencies, and to be more in conflict with their social environment. In order to provide more effective management, the psychological status of patients with alopecia areata should be evaluated in dermatological settings. © 2012 The Authors.