Alopecia areata
Alternative Names
Alopecia totalis; Alopecia universalis
Definition
Alopecia areata is a condition that causes round patches of hair loss. It can lead to total hair loss.
Causes
The cause of alopecia areata is unknown. About 1 in 5 people with this condition have a family history of alopecia.
Alopecia areata is thought to be an autoimmune condition. This occurs when the immune system mistakenly attacks and destroys healthy body tissue.
Alopecia areata is seen in men, women, and children. In a few people, hair loss may occur after a major life event such as an illness, pregnancy, or trauma.
Forms of alopecia include:
- Alopecia areata -- patches of hair loss
- Alopecia totalis -- complete loss of scalp hair
- Alopecia universalis -- total loss of all body hair
Symptoms
Hair loss is usually the only symptom. A few people may also feel a burning sensation or itching.
Alopecia areata usually begins as one to two patches of hair loss. Hair loss, is most often seen on the scalp. It may also occur in the beard, eyebrows, and arms or legs in some people.
Patches where hair has fallen out are smooth and round in shape. They may be peach-colored. Hairs that look like exclamation points are sometimes seen at the edges of a bald patch.
- Loss of all scalp hair (alopecia totalis), often within 6 months after symptoms first start.
- Loss of all scalp and body hair (alopecia universalis).
Exams and Tests
A scalp biopsy may be done. Several blood tests may also be done to check for autoimmune conditions and thyroid problems.
Treatment
If hair loss is not widespread, the hair will often regrow in a few months without treatment.
Even for more severe hair loss, it is not clear how much treatment can help change the course of the condition.
Common treatments may include:
- Steroid injection under the skin surface
- Medicines applied to the skin including corticosteroids, immunotherapy, and minoxidil
- Ultraviolet light therapy
Wigs may be used to hide areas of hair loss.
Outlook (Prognosis)
Full recovery of hair is common.
However, some people may have a poorer outcome, including those with:
- Alopecia areata that starts at a young age
- Eczema (atopic dermatitis)
- Long-term alopecia
- Widespread or complete loss of scalp or body hair
When to Contact a Medical Professional
Call your health care provider if you are concerned about hair loss.
References
Sperling LC, Sinclair RD, El Shabrawi-Caelen L. Alopecias. In: Bolognia JL, Jorizzo JL, Schaffer JV,
et al, eds. Dermatology. 3rd ed. Philadelphia, Pa: Mosby Elsevier; 2012:chap 60.