Evaluation of Anxiety and Levels of Serum B12, Folate, TSH, Ferritin, and Zinc in Telogen Alopecia Patients with Trichodynia

BACKGROUND: Trichodynia refers to pain, discomfort, and/or paresthesia of the scalp. Trichodynia may be associated with anxiety. AIM: To assess serum vitamin B12, folate, thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH), ferritin, and zinc levels, and to investigate anxiety in telogen alopecia patients with trichodynia. MATERIALS AND METHODS: The study included 31 telogen alopecia patients who complained of trichodynia and 30 telogen alopecia patients without trichodynia. Their serum vitamin B12, folate, TSH, ferritin, and zinc levels were assessed and their anxiety levels were scored using the Beck Anxiety Inventory (BAI) and the State-Trait Anxiety Inventory (STAI). RESULTS: No significant difference was found in the serum levels of vitamin B12, folate, TSH, ferritin, and zinc in the patient and control groups. The anxiety scores in both groups were similar. CONCLUSION: Our data provide no evidence for the association of serum vitamin B12, folate, TSH, ferritin, and zinc levels or anxiety scores with trichodynia.