366 Comparing patient perspectives towards treatment for alopecia areata before and during COVID-19 using social media data mining

Abstract

Alopecia Areata (AA) is often associated with psychosocial distress due to its chronic nature and clinical presentation. Though treatment modalities are available, little is known regarding the emotional responses to these treatments. Thus, treatment response may not always match patient perceived efficacy of treatment or underlying emotional response. The restrictions and lockdowns associated with COVID-19 may change patient perspective towards treatments for AA. Brandwatch, an artificial intelligence-powered social media database was used to identify publicly available social media posts regarding AA treatment modalities before COVID-19 (May 2008- February 2020) and during COVID-19 (February 2020 – April 2021).