Correlations Between Vitamin D and C-Reactive Protein Levels in Alopecia Areata

Correlations Between Vitamin D and C-Reactive Protein Levels in Alopecia Areata

According to a study published in the Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, vitamin D deficiency is associated with higher c-reactive protein (CRP) levels in patients with alopecia areata (AA).

Researchers aimed to investigate the connection between vitamin D and CRP levels in individuals with AA. They conducted a cross-sectional study with participants aged 18 and older with AA who were provided written consent for their involvement. The researchers assessed the severity of the disease using the Severity of Alopecia Tool (SALT). Alongside this evaluation, serum vitamin D and CRP levels were measured, and additional tests, including complete blood cell count and liver function tests, were conducted.

The findings revealed noteworthy disparities between patients with localized AA and those with the universal form of the condition. Specifically, differences were observed in vitamin D levels, SALT scores, white blood cell counts, alkaline phosphatase levels, and CRP levels. Furthermore, a significant inverse correlation was identified between CRP and vitamin D levels (P < .0001).

The authors concluded, “…patients with low serum vitamin D and high CRP levels are at a higher risk of developing the universalis form of AA; therefore, these patients should undergo more aggressive treatments.”

Reference
Mokhtari F, Ganjei Z, Yazdanpanah M, Hosseini M. Inverse correlation between vitamin D and CRP levels in alopecia areata: a pilot study. J Cosmet Dermatol. Published online September 7, 2023. doi:10.1111/jocd.15994