LB957 Post-traumatic stress disorder in patients with alopecia areata

Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) occurs secondary to exposure a traumatic event. Alopecia areata (AA) is an autoimmune condition causing unpredictable hair loss. Disorders such as anxiety and depression are comorbid with AA,1 lack of highly efficacious treatment options can be distressing.2 This cross-sectional survey study examines the prevalence PTSD among patients AA. The Checklist for DSM-5 was distributed through National Areata Foundation.3 1449 completed surveys (rate 79.6%); most respondents were female (83.8%) white (76.6%), 91.4% experiencing active 37.3% had history AA, 12.8% AT, 50.0% AU. A total 33.9% screened positively PTSD. Feelings intrusion (Cluster B) avoidance C) predominant symptoms. AT highest average PCL-5 score (p=0.003) percentage PTSD, followed by AU, Our results reflect that one in three this cohort meet screening criteria These build on literature psychological comorbidities AA suggesting ramifications extend beyond disease. Dermatologists should consider implications nonadherence avoid triggering Additionally, dermatologists better support validating their responses triggers, utilizing systems like telehealth available during crisis, referring psychiatric evaluation. Generalizability limited utilization NAAF database, identifying females. 1.Toussi A, et al. Psychosocial health-related quality life alopecia areata: systematic review. Journal American Academy Dermatology. 2021;85(1):162-175. 2.Hunt N, impact alopecia. Bmj. 2005;331(7522):951-3. 3.Weathers FW, (PCL-5). Center at www.ptsd.va.gov