Behavioral problems as a risk factor for Alopecia Areata and  another skin disease: a case-control study in Iran

Background: Alopecia areata is a dermatological disorder that is more prevalent among the pediatric population. This disease has been linked to behavioral problems in both pediatrics and adults. However, the behavioral problems of the pediatric population have not been widely studied. The present study aimed to evaluate the behavioral problems among the pediatric population in the north of Iran. methods: This case-control study was carried out on the 90 children aged 4-13 who have been chosen by simple sampling and equally enrolled in three study groups; Alopecia areata, another skin disease, and healthy children. The parent’s version of the strengths and difficulties questionnaire (SDQ) was used, and P<0.05 is considered a significant level. Results: : The mean age of the patients with Alopecia, other diseases, and healthy population were 9.27, 8.43, and 9.93 years, respectively. The total difficulty score was not significantly different between the alopecia patients and patients with other diseases (p=0.137). The total difficulty score was significantly different among those with alopecia areata and those with other diseases and the healthy population (p=0.003 and p=0.045). Emotional symptoms of conduct problems and peer relationship problems were common in children with alopecia areata compared to the healthy population (p=0.004, p=0.019, and p< 0.001, respectively). Conclusions: : The pediatric patients with alopecia areata have an increased level of behavioral problems compared to the healthy population. Therefore, pediatric patients with alopecia areata need psychiatric assessments alongside treating their dermatologic concerns.