This randomized controlled trial compares the effectiveness of topical calcipotriol and intralesional corticosteroids in the treatment of alopecia areata. Alopecia areata is an autoimmune condition that causes non-scarring hair loss and can significantly affect quality of life. Intralesional corticosteroids are commonly used as first-line therapy; however, response rates vary and treatment may be associated with discomfort and local adverse effects.
Sixty adult patients with patchy alopecia areata involving less than 50% of the scalp were randomly assigned to receive either topical calcipotriol or intralesional corticosteroid injections for 12 weeks. Participants were evaluated at four-week intervals. Treatment response was assessed using the Severity of Alopecia Tool (SALT) score and percentage improvement from baseline.
The primary objective is to compare reduction in SALT score between the two treatment groups. Secondary outcomes include overall treatment efficacy and safety. The findings aim to determine whether topical calcipotriol provides superior or comparable clinical benefit to intralesional corticosteroids in patients with alopecia areata.
Adults aged 18 to 50 years
Clinically diagnosed patchy alopecia areata
Scalp involvement of less than 50% (SALT score <50%)
No topical or systemic treatment for alopecia areata within the previous 3 months
Diffuse alopecia areata or scarring alopecia
Presence of other autoimmune diseases or significant systemic illness
Known hypersensitivity to calcipotriol or corticosteroids
Pregnant or lactating women
Parallel
Calcipotriol
DrugTopical calcipotriol 0.005% ointment was applied to affected scalp areas twice daily for 12 weeks. Participants were instructed to apply a thin layer over alopecia patches and gently massage into the scalp. Treatment response was evaluated at weeks 4, 8, and 12 using the Severity of Alopecia Tool (SALT) score. Adverse effects were monitored throughout the study period
Triamcinolone Acetonide
DrugTriamcinolone acetonide was administered as intralesional injections at a concentration of 5 mg/mL into alopecia patches at 4-week intervals for 12 weeks. Injections were delivered intradermally using a fine-gauge needle, with dose distributed across affected lesions according to lesion size. Clinical response was assessed at weeks 4, 8, and 12 using the Severity of Alopecia Tool (SALT) score. Participants were monitored for local adverse effects such as skin atrophy and telangiectasia.
Change in Severity of Alopecia Tool (SALT) Score From Baseline to Week 12
The primary outcome is the change in Severity of Alopecia Tool (SALT) score from baseline to 12 weeks of treatment. The SALT score quantifies the percentage of scalp hair loss. A greater reduction in SALT score indicates improved hair regrowth and treatment efficacy.
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