Diphenylcyclopropenone for Beard Alopecia Areata: Correlation Between Treatment Response and Satisfaction Publisher



Rahimnia A ; Sani S B ; Ehsani A ; Hamzelou S ; Abedini R ; Ghandi N ; Rezaei A R ; Mohammadabadi M K
Source: Iranian Journal of Dermatology Published:2026

Abstract

Background: Alopecia areata (AA) is an autoimmune disorder characterized by non-scarring hair loss, which can have a significant psychological impact on patients. Diphenylcyclopropenone (DPCP), as a contact immunomodulatory agent, has gained attention as an effective treatment option. This study aimed to evaluate the therapeutic effects of DPCP and assess patient satisfaction in male patients with beard AA using the Treatment Satisfaction Questionnaire for Medication (TSQM). Methods: In this cross-sectional study, we included 54 male patients with beard AA who were treated at Razi Dermatology Hospital in Tehran between March 2023 and February 2024. Data on demographics, clinical characteristics, and DPCP treatment were collected from medical records. Patient satisfaction was assessed using the TSQM questionnaire. Statistical analyses were performed using SPSS software, with a significance level set at P < 0.05. Results: The mean age of the participants was 31.04 years (SD = 8.65), with an average treatment duration of 17.8 months (SD = 17.2). The overall mean TSQM score was 253.13 (SD = 66.25). Responders (66.7%) had significantly higher TSQM scores (mean = 281.25, SD = 57.75) compared to non-responders (mean = 196.89, SD = 39.44; P < 0.001). Patients with multiple patches or total beard loss demonstrated better treatment outcomes than those with single patches (P = 0.034). Conclusion: DPCP is a safe and effective treatment for beard AA, with high patient satisfaction. Treatment is significantly correlated with satisfaction levels. Further studies are needed to evaluate long-term outcomes and patient satisfaction. ©Iranian Journal of Dermatology.