Monitoring
Monitoring involves re-evaluating the percentage of scalp with hair loss by assessing whether it is less or greater than at the last visit. Clinical response should ideally be evaluated through history, the hair pull test serial photography, Severity in Alopecia Tool score (aim for at least 50% improvement), and quality of life measures such as the Dermatology Life Quality Index and Alopecia Areata Symptom Impact scale by comparing the baseline scores to those of the most recent visit. A positive hair pull test and increased hair shedding (stages 4-6) suggests ongoing activity.[2]
The patient should be examined for any signs of regrowth, including using the dermatoscope. The patient should be followed up initially at 6 weeks after starting therapy; thereafter, follow-up intervals depend on the specific therapy trial and treatment response.
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