Topical Bimatoprost (0.03%) Versus Topical Mometasone Furoate (0.1%) in Treatment of Alopecia Areata

Background: Alopecia areata is a prevalent, immune-mediated disease that targets anagen hair follicles in gentically predisposed individuals. Their are various treatment modalities of different Ecco Ay and safety for treatment of this chronic ailment. Bimatoprost, a prostamide analog have been recognised with the potential of increaed hair growth and can be used as an alternative treatment option. Objective: To compare the efficacy and safety of bimatoprost 0.03% with mometasone furoate 0.1%in the treatment of AA involving eyebrows, scalp and beard. Methods: This was a randomized single-blinded clinical trial done in the Dermatology Outpatient Department of Nishtar Hospital Multan (NHM). The duration of the study was from August 2020 to March 2021. 60 patients with patchy AA having upto 5 patches with a maximum diameter of 5cm in longest dimension involving eyebrows, scalp and beard were included in the study and were randomly assigned to either Group A (topical bimatoprost 0.03% solution twice daily) or Group B (topical mometasone furoate 0.1% cream once daily) for a period of 3 months. Patients were called for assessment monthly (every 4 weeks) and clinical photographs of the site of treatment were taken. Response to the treatment was assessed clinically by subjective improvement of hair growth at the site of hair loss by two physicians as no, mild, moderate and good hair re-growth depending on the percentage of hair re-growth. The data was analyzed through SPSS version 21.Results: At the end of 3 months of treatment, 29 out of 30 (97%) patients of Group B responded to the treatment, while 24 out of 30 (80%) Group A patients responded to the treatment. The response to both treatments was found statistically significant and the p-value was 0.000. Group B treated patients were better in their percentage of hair re-growth, speed of recovery, patient satisfaction and were devoid of any documented side effects.Conclusion: Bimatoprost 0.03% solution (topical), owing to its safety and efficacy represent a better therapeutic option for the treatment of AA involving eyebrows, scalp and beard. Corresponding Author | Dr. Ayesha Iram, Department of Dermatology, Nishtar Hospital, Multan