Complete Responses And SALT Zero Scores In Alopecia Areata: Not The Same

The letter discusses a case of alopecia areata treated with upadacitinib, highlighting that while significant hair regrowth was observed, the patient did not achieve a SALT score of 0 after 5 months, indicating some remaining hair loss. The author emphasizes the distinction between a "complete response," defined as 90% regrowth or a SALT score ≤10, and a SALT 0 score, which signifies no scalp hair loss. The unpredictability of alopecia areata and the potential for disease flare at any SALT score above 0 are noted, suggesting a need to reconsider the terminology used in treatment outcomes.