Alopecia areata (hair loss)
About Alopecia areata (hair loss)
An autoimmune disease that causes hair loss. Cells from the body's own immune system, which are supposed to attack only foreign invaders, attacks normal tissue (hair follicles) of the body. Besides hair loss most patients do not experience any other symptoms. 14% of patients experience burning and itching in the area of hair loss. The progression of the hair loss can be unpredictable and most patients have only one patch of hair loss. The scalp is the most commonly affected area. Two subtypes exist: alopecia totalis occurs when all the scalp hair is lost; and alopecia universalis occurs with complete loss of all body hair. The exact cause of the disorder is unknown, but the disease does run in families.Symptoms
Hair loss most often involving the scalp but can involve any part of the body. 14% of patients have burning and itching in the area of hair loss. Spontaneous regrowth of hair occurs in most patients. In 90% of patients the hair loss will occur again within 5 years.Tests & Diagnostics
A history and physical exam will be done. In most cases the diagnosis is confirmed without any testing. Sometimes a biopsy of the affected area will be done.OTC sleep aids and supportive treatments
Prescription medications
Conventional treatment summary
Therapy is dependent on the extent of hair loss. Most patients will get better on their own without specific treatment. Corticosteroids can be used topically or injected into the skin of the affected area. Other treatment options include: immunotherapy, minoxidil/Rogaine, ultraviolet light treatment, and oral prednisone/Deltasone. For more information see The National Alopecia Areata Foundation at www.naaf.org.Medical specialties
Internal Medicine · Dermatology · Pediatrics · Family Practice · Pediatric Dermatology
This page is educational content, not medical advice. Always consult a qualified clinician for diagnosis and treatment of Alopecia areata (hair loss).