Content » Vol 92, Issue 3

Investigative Report

Psychological Status of Patients with Alopecia Areata

Stefania Alfani, Valeria Antinone, Aurelia Mozzetta, Cristina Di Pietro, Cinzia Mazzanti, Piero Stella, Desanka Raskovich, Damiano Abeni
DOI: 10.2340/00015555-1239

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.

Significance

Supplementary content

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