Standardized evaluation of the scalp by photography in patients with alopecia

Abstract

Alopecia is a very frequent reason for consultation and is associated with altered mood, low self-esteem, anxiety, etc.

New hair growth is slow and variations can be difficult to see, which can lead to anxiety and lack of adherence to treatment, among others.

The specialist's evaluation, in general, differs from that perceived by the patient, which can undermine the relationship between the two.

Patients were surveyed before and after the visit with the specialist.

The severity of self-perceived alopecia with respect to the previous visit, the degree of anxiety associated with hair loss, and the motivation to continue treatment were evaluated.

The first survey was carried out before seeing the standardized photographs of the scalp and, the later, after seeing them together with the attending physician.

Before seeing the compared photographs of the scalp, 34.4% of the patients reported that the loss was "worse" or "much worse" and 81.5% reported anxiety associated with alopecia.

After seeing the photographs with the specialist, 52.9% of the patients reported improvement in alopecia and 81.5%, decreased anxiety.

93% of the patients commented that viewing the photographs was useful to them.

The standardized photograph of the scalp decreases anxiety and improves the congruence between the clinical evaluation and the self-perceived evaluation by the patient.