Alopecia Areata

Excerpt

Alopecia areata is a chronic, immune-mediated autoimmune disorder that affects hair follicles, nails, and, occasionally, the retinal pigment epithelium. This condition targets the anagen hair follicles of individuals and leads to hair loss without permanent damage to the follicles. Alopecia areata arises from an autoimmune disruption in the normal hair cycle, resulting in the loss of immune privilege in the hair follicles.

Alopecia areata usually presents as localized patches of hair loss on the scalp, which develop over a few weeks (see Image. Alopecia Areata). The classic presentation of alopecia areata involves isolated, smooth, sudden, nonscarring, and patchy hair loss on the scalp or any area with hair growth. Although many individuals experience spontaneous hair regrowth within 1 year, alopecia areata is a chronic condition characterized by recurring episodes of hair loss that require both psychological support and medical treatment. Various treatment options, such as corticosteroids, immunotherapy, Janus kinase (JAK) inhibitors, and topical solutions, are available to help manage the extent and duration of hair loss.