Increased prevalence of thyroid disorders in patients with new onset alopecia areata

Background Several studies have revealed a high prevalence of thyroid disorders in patients with alopecia areata. The aim of the present study was to evaluate the frequency of thyroid function abnormalities and anti-thyroid auto-antibodies in patients with new onset alopecia areata on their first visit to a community dermatology clinic. Methods The study included 78 patients with new onset alopecia areata who visited a community dermatology clinic between 2007 and 2011. Every patient underwent a complete medical history, physical examination and laboratory testing consisting of thyroid function tests (serum levels of free triiodothyronine, free thyroxine and thyroid stimulating hormone) and anti-thyroid auto-antibodies (thyroglobulin antibodies and thyroid peroxidase antibodies). Results The 78 patients included 46 (59%) men and 32 (41%) women, with 1.44 male : female ratio and mean age of 32.7 +/- 3.09 years. Abnormal thyroid function and anti-thyroid auto-antibodies were detected in 19 (24%) patients. Of these, 12 (15%) patients were diagnosed with subclinical hypothyroidism, one (1%) with an overt hypothyroidism, one (1%) with an overt hyperthyroidism and four (5%) with euthyroid Hashimoto's thyroiditis. Conclusion The study revealed a significant association between alopecia areata and thyroid abnormalities. Screening for thyroid function and anti-thyroid auto-antibodies is advised in alopecia areata.