Understanding

Alopecia Areata

Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment Options

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What is Alopecia Areata?

Alopecia areata is an autoimmune disorder characterized by sudden and unpredictable hair loss in patches on the scalp, face, and other parts of the body. 

 

Although the condition is considered to be common, it can be emotionally challenging and often leaves individuals searching for answers, as well as effective treatments.

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What are The Symptoms of Alopecia Areata?

Symptoms of alopecia areata typically start in adulthood around the ages of 25 and 35. While the condition most often affects an individual’s scalp, it can affect other areas of the body as well. 

 

This includes a person’s face, chest, back, arms, and legs. Hair loss may happen suddenly or it may happen gradually over time, which can make proper diagnosis a challenge for some of those that are struggling with the condition. 

 

Other less common symptoms might include an itching feeling in the affected area or new white hair growth in the area.

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Different Types of Alopecia Areata

There are actually a few different types of alopecia areata, depending on the extent of the hair loss and other accompanying symptoms. These are:

Patchy Alopecia Areata

This is the most common type of alopecia areata. It is characterized by one or more coin-sized patches of hair loss. The patches can either be on the scalp or on another location of the body.

Alopecia Totalis

Hair loss across an individual’s entire scalp is considered alopecia totalis.

Alopecia Universalis

This type of alopecia occurs when a person loses their hair across their entire body, including the hair on their scalp and face.

Ophiasis Alopecia

This type of alopecia is when hair loss occurs in a band on the sides and the lower back of the scalp.

Diffuse Alopecia Areata

Diffuse alopecia occurs when there is sudden and rapid hair loss all over an individual’s scalp, not just in patches.

Treatment Options for Alopecia Areata

While there is no cure for alopecia areata, various treatment options can help manage symptoms and promote hair regrowth. 

 

Before starting any treatment for alopecia areata, you will want to consult with a medical professional. Treatment options may include:

 

Topical Corticosteroids: Applied directly to the affected areas, corticosteroid creams or ointments can help reduce inflammation and stimulate hair regrowth.

 

Intralesional Corticosteroid Injections: Injecting corticosteroids directly into the bald patches can be effective in promoting hair regrowth, especially in localized areas.

 

Topical Immunotherapy: This treatment involves applying a chemical irritant, such as diphencyprone (DPCP) or squaric acid dibutyl ester (SADBE), to the scalp to provoke an immune response and stimulate hair regrowth.

 

Systemic Therapies: In severe cases or when other treatments have failed, oral medications such as corticosteroids, immunosuppressants, or biologic drugs may be prescribed to modulate the immune response and reduce inflammation.

Alopecia Areata FAQs

What's the Definition of Alopecia Areata?

Alopecia Areata is an autoimmune disorder in which the immune system mistakenly attacks hair follicles, causing hair loss. 

 

The condition typically results in one or more round patches of baldness on the scalp, but it can also affect other parts of the body. 

 

The extent of hair loss and regrowth varies greatly among individuals.

What causes Alopecia Areata?

Alopecia Areata is an autoimmune disorder in which the immune system mistakenly attacks hair follicles, causing hair loss. 

 

The condition typically results in one or more round patches of baldness on the scalp, but it can also affect other parts of the body. 

 

The extent of hair loss and regrowth varies greatly among individuals.

How is Alopecia Areata diagnosed?

Alopecia Areata is primarily diagnosed through a clinical examination of the hair loss patterns and by ruling out other causes of hair loss. 

 

A dermatologist might also perform a scalp biopsy, where a small section of scalp skin is removed and examined under a microscope, to confirm the diagnosis. 

 

Blood tests may be conducted to check for autoimmune markers or other related conditions.

What are the treatment options for Alopecia Areata?

While there is no cure for Alopecia Areata, there are treatments that may help promote hair regrowth or improve the appearance of hair loss. Treatment options include Corticosteroids, Minoxidil (Rogaine), Topical Immunotherapy, and JAK Inhibitors.

Can hair regrow after Alopecia Areata?

Yes, hair can regrow after an episode of Alopecia Areata. In many cases, hair regrows within a year without treatment, although it may be thinner or a different color initially. 

 

However, the course of Alopecia Areata is unpredictable, and new patches of hair loss can occur even after regrowth. 

 

Some individuals may experience more extensive hair loss (Alopecia Totalis or Universalis), where the prognosis for regrowth may be more guarded.

Comprehensive Cranial Prosthetic Services at Wig Medical

Discover the dedicated care and expertise you deserve for your hair loss condition at Wig Medical. 

 

Our team of specialists is here to support you every step of the way on your journey to finding the perfect cranial prosthetic solution. Whether you're seeking a medical wig covered by insurance or looking for personalized assistance, we're committed to providing compassionate and comprehensive care tailored to your needs.

 

Take control of your confidence and well-being by scheduling an appointment with us today. Reach out to our team to learn more about our range of services and start your transformation with Wig Medical.

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