BH15 Ritlecitinib for alopecia areata: all-Wales audit

Abstract

Ritlecitinib gained NICE approval for the treatment of severe alopecia areata in March 2024. This national audit project reviewed current, real-world clinical practice, patient outcomes and treatment experiences associated with ritlecitinib use for alopecia areata across Wales. This was an all-Wales, multicentre audit including all Welsh health boards and dermatology centres. All new NHS patients with alopecia areata commenced on ritlecitinib from March 2024 onwards were eligible for inclusion, and 63 patient experiences were identified for inclusion across 6 health boards. Data collected included patient demographics, preceding treatment pathway (including transfer from private care and prior exposure to Janus kinase inhibitors) and previous therapies. Use of baseline assessments was reviewed, including Severity of Alopecia Tool scoring, psychological assessment, baseline blood investigations, medical photography and provision of patient information booklets. The audit also evaluated pretreatment counselling, monitoring arrangements and reported adverse effects during treatment. Data were anonymized and analysed descriptively to assess variation in practice and patient experience across health boards. This audit has generated real-world data on current practice, patient outcomes and the reported adverse effects of ritlecitinib in routine NHS dermatology services within Wales. The findings have been communicated to the All Wales Welsh Dermatology Forum, supporting standardization of care across Wales.