Alopecia Areata Treatment

What is alopecia areata?

It is a common cause of hair loss. It occurs in men and women of all ages but is more common in children and young adults. I resents as small round patches of baldness on the scalp and/ or other hair bearing areas. Occasionally it may involve the entire scalp (alopecia totalis) or even the whole body and scalp (Alopecia Universalis)

What cause alopecia areata?

It is an autoimmune disease. The bodys own immune cells attack hair follicles resulting in hair loss. Genetic predisposition may play a role. Diet and nutritional deficiencies do not cause alopecia areata. Stress appears to be a triggering factor

Is it associated with any underlying medical problem?

It may be associated with other autoimmune conditions like thyroid disease and vitiligo. Where indicated, your doctor may perform blood tests to look for these conditions

How is alopecia areata treated?

• Topical applications
• Topical steroids and minoxidil
• Steroid injections.

Most effective for small patches. Monthly injections are given. The injections can be a little uncomfortable and sometimes can cause depression of scalp at injection sites

Steroid tablets

These are given to stop the progression of disease