Efficacy of intralesional Vitamin D ₃ injection in the treatment of alopecia areata: A comparative study

Objectives: The aim of the study is to compare the efficacy and safety of intralesional Vitamin D 3 injections with intralesional TAC in patients with patch-type AA. Material and Methods: This comparative open-label clinical study included 80 patients with patchy AA (<50% scalp involvement). Participants were allocated into two groups using an alternate allocation method to receive either intralesional TAC or intralesional Vitamin D 3 at 4-week intervals. Hair regrowth was assessed at weeks 4, 8, and 12, and treatment success was defined as ≥75% regrowth at week 12. Results: Gradual improvement occurred in both groups with respect to regrowth. At the 12-week mark, mean regrowth scores were 3.45 for the triamcinolone group and 3.85 for the Vitamin D 3 group. The treatment success rate was 55% for patients receiving triamcinolone and 75% for patients receiving Vitamin D 3 . This difference was not statistically significant ( p > 0.05), indicating comparable efficacy between the two treatments. Recurrence rates were approximately equal, with 10% experiencing recurrence after receiving triamcinolone and 15% experiencing recurrence after receiving Vitamin D 3 . Adverse effects were minimal and temporary. Adverse effects associated with triamcinolone included localized pain and atrophy, while adverse effects associated with Vitamin D 3 included mild erythema/irritation. Conclusion: Intralesional Vitamin D 3 demonstrated efficacy comparable to intralesional TAC, with a non-significant trend toward improved therapeutic outcomes and fewer local adverse effects. It may represent a safe alternative, particularly for patients who are at higher risk of corticosteroid-related side effects.