Alopecia Areata

What is it?
Alopecia areata is a disease in which hair is lost suddenly, creating distinct bald patches, usually on the head or other parts of the body commonly covered with hair.
Who gets it?
People with a family history of alopecia areata are more likely to develop it. In children, it usually appears during the school years.
What causes it?
The cause of alopecia areata is unknown. However, researchers believe it is linked to the autoimmune system.
What are the symptoms?
Alopecia areata results in smooth, round or oval bald areas. There are usually no signs of inflammation. Symptoms can vary from bald patches (patchy alopecia areata), to complete scalp baldness (alopecia totalis), to loss of all scalp and body hair (alopecia universalis). People with this condition are otherwise in generally good health.
How is it diagnosed?
A skin specialist called a dermatologist may be able to diagnose your condition through a visual examination. In some cases, he or she may want to remove a small sample of skin, called a skin biopsy, to examine under a microscope.
What is the treatment?
Patchy alopecia areata usually clears up on its own within several months to several years. However, it is common for this condition to recur. It is less common for hair to grow back if hair loss is widespread, as in alopecia totalis or alopecia universalis. Some alopecia areata patients respond well to drugs that promote hair regrowth, such as those containing minoxidil and finasteride. A cream or ointment containing anthralin has also been found to stimulate new hair growth in those with mild cases of alopecia areata. Cortisone pills may be prescribed in cases of substantial hair loss.
Self-care tips
Check with your dermatologist before trying any home treatment for baldness. There are many forms of alopecia, some caused by disease, so it is important to determine the type of alopecia before treating the condition. People with all forms of alopecia usually find support groups dedicated to their condition helpful.