New JAAD alopecia supplement offers dermatologists the latest advances in diagnosis and treatment

Aug. 15, 2023

The Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology (JAAD) recently published a new supplement, “Alopecia: A New Frontier,” that can help dermatologists differentiate between the various types of alopecia and identify correct treatments and best options so they can feel confident that they’re providing patients with the best information and optimal care for a potentially devastating condition.

Members of the AAD can access this supplement for free and earn up to eight hours of continuing medical education credit for completing a post-test and evaluation survey.

In this exclusive DermWorld Academy Insider interview, Lynne J. Goldberg, MD, FAAD, who has written several JAAD articles about alopecia and served as guest editor for the supplement, explains the new supplement and why members should read it.

DermWorld: Why was this supplement developed? Why the title “Alopecia: A New Frontier?”

Dr. Goldberg: This is an exciting time for dermatologists. The approval of baricitinib for alopecia areata by the Food and Drug Administration in June of 2022 was a major milestone. Low-dose oral minoxidil has been a game changer in how we treat male and female pattern hair loss. The editors of JAAD felt the moment was right to highlight these and other diagnostic and therapeutic advancements in the field of alopecia. We thought it was a catchy, apt title. 

DermWorld: What can members expect to learn from the supplement?

Dr. Goldberg: The supplement covers a wide variety of subjects dealing with both the diagnosis and treatment of alopecia. Experienced clinicians share their knowledge with eight brief, informative, and focused discussions on the approach to the patient, trichoscopy, the biopsy, medication-induced hair loss, therapy of scarring and non-scarring alopecia, and how to effectively counsel the hair loss patient. 

DermWorld: Why should members read the supplement?

Dr. Goldberg: Hair loss is hard — both for the patient and the clinician! Clinical and histopathologic findings of the various alopecias overlap to a large extent. Trichoscopy has emerged as an invaluable tool to improve diagnostic accuracy, and transverse sections have revolutionized the interpretation of scalp biopsies. Because there are few randomized controlled trials on therapeutic modalities, management plans often differ between clinicians. We can all learn from each other, and our patients will ultimately benefit from our shared experiences.