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A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q R S T U V W X Y Z

ALOPECIA AREATA: Alopecia areata is hair loss of unknown cause, characterized by round patches of complete baldness.

ALOPECIA TOTALIS: Alopecia may also occur as alopecia totalis with complete loss of scalp hair.

ALOPECIA UNIVERSALIS: Alopecia universalis is characterized by the complete loss of all scalp and body hair.

CAUSES AND RISK FACTORS: The specific cause of alopecia areata is unknown. A family history of alopecia is present in about one fifth of all cases. Alopecia areata is occasionally associated with autoimmune diseases.

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SYMPTOMS:

Hairs that look like exclamation points are sometime seen at the edges of a bald patch.

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SIGNS AND TESTS:

On occasion, a scalp biopsy may be performed.

TREATMENT:

No fully effective treatments are available.

TYPICAL THERAPIES:

• Irritating agents may be applied to hairless areas to promote regrowth
• Subcutaneous (under the skin surface) steroid injection
• Topical corticosteroids (medium to very high potency)
• Ultraviolet light therapy

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PROGNOSIS:

Full recovery of hair is common. However, alopecia areata occurring at a young age, prolonged alopecia, or the presence of eczema (atopic dermatitis) often predicts a poor outcome.

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COMPLICATIONS:

Permanent hair loss is a possible complication of alopecia areata.