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| Definition: |
Various patterns of hair loss that have no known cause. Alopecia areata is characterized by the complete loss of hair within roundish patches.
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| Alternative Names: |
Alopecia totalis; Alopecia universalis
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| Causes, incidence, and risk factors: |
The specific cause of alopecia areata is unknown. A family history of alopecia is present in about a fifth of all cases. Alopecia areata is occasionally associated with autoimmune diseases.
Alopecia may also occur as alopecia totalis with complete loss of scalp hair or as alopecia universalis with total loss of all body hair. |
| Symptoms: |
- roundish patches of hair loss with smooth hairless scalp in the affected areas
- complete loss of all scalp hair
- complete loss of all body hair
- exclamation point shaped hairs are sometime seen at the periphery 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 therapy includes:
- corticosteroids -- topical -- medium to very high potency
- subcutaneous injection of steroids
- ultraviolet light therapy
- irritating agents may be applied to hairless areas to promote regrowth
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| Expectations (prognosis): |
| Spontaneous remission with 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 poorer outcome. |
| Complications: |
| Permanent hair loss can occasionally occur. |
| Calling your health care provider: |
| Call for an appointment with your health care provider if you are concerned about hair loss. |
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Review Date: 8/7/2001
Reviewed By: Michael Lehrer, M.D., Department of Dermatology, University of Pennsylvania Medical Center, Philadelphia, PA. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.
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