UV-Trichoscopic Red Fluorescence in Alopecia Areata

The goal of this observational study is to learn whether red fluorescence seen with ultraviolet (UV) trichoscopy is related to disease findings and treatment response in adults with limited plaque-type alopecia areata. Trichoscopy is a close-up imaging method used to examine the hair and scalp. The study will investigate whether the amount of red fluorescence at the beginning of the study is related to how soon hair starts to grow back, how much hair regrows, and how trichoscopic findings change during follow-up. Participants for whom intralesional corticosteroid treatment has been planned as part of their regular medical care will have standard trichoscopic and UV-trichoscopic images taken of the affected scalp area. They will be followed at weeks 4, 8, and 12, when hair regrowth and changes in scalp and hair findings will be evaluated. Researchers will measure red fluorescence in the images and examine whether it is related to treatment response over time.

Inclusion Criteria: * Age 18 years or older * Limited plaque-type alopecia areata of the scalp * Active hair loss * Symptom onset within the previous 6 months * No topical, intramuscular, or oral treatment for alopecia areata within the previous 1 month * No intralesional corticosteroid treatment within the previous 6 weeks * Provision of informed consent Exclusion Criteria: * Beard alopecia areata * Very extensive alopecia areata or multiple large plaques * Tinea capitis or active infection * Current phototherapy * Systemic immunosuppressive treatment within the washout period specified in the study protocol * Pregnancy or breastfeeding * Contraindication to UV imaging