Serum zinc level in alopecia areata patients: a cross-sectional study

Background and Aim: Alopecia areata is a non-scarring hair disorder. Trace elements imbalance (like zinc) has been reported as its triggering factor. In this study we compared serum zinc level in alopecia areata patients with normal values.Methods: Twenty-three female and 19 male patients with alopecia areata were recruited and their serum zinc levels were assessed using absorption spectrometery. Chi squared, t and ANOVA tests were used for statistical analysis.Results: Sixteen patients with more extensive and prolonged disease, had serum zinc level lower than normal (70 μg/dL). The means of serum zinc levels in patients and normal population were 81.88 μg/dL and 83.5 μg/dL, respectively. This difference was not significant (P=0.668). The means of serum zinc level in different types of alopecia areata were not significantly different (P>0.05). There was an association between serum zinc level and disease duration (P=0.022).