Alopecia Areata

• A sudden onset of hair loss in round or oval patches on the scalp.
• Patch size varies from a few millimeters to several centimeters, and multiple patches may appear.
• Hair loss can also occur on the eyebrows, eyelashes, beard, or body hair.
• Usually painless and not itchy, though in some cases the condition may progress or spread.

• Diagnosis is based on clinical examination, observing the pattern and condition of the scalp.
• Blood tests may be performed to check for autoimmune diseases or thyroid disorders.
• It is important to distinguish from androgenetic alopecia (AGA) and other causes of hair loss.

Alopecia areata may resolve spontaneously, but treatment is adjusted according to the severity and extent of the condition.

• Topical Therapy
– Application of steroid ointments or topical immunotherapy (using agents that cause mild allergic inflammation to stimulate hair regrowth).

• Injection Therapy
– Localized steroid injections into affected scalp areas to suppress inflammation and promote regrowth.

• Oral Medication
– Anti-inflammatory or immunosuppressive drugs may be prescribed for more extensive cases.

• Phototherapy (Ultraviolet Light Therapy)
– Used for refractory or chronic cases unresponsive to standard treatments.

• Lifestyle Management
– Since stress, fatigue, and sleep deprivation can worsen symptoms, maintaining healthy lifestyle habits is an important part of care.

• In mild cases, spontaneous regrowth may occur within a few months.
• In extensive or recurrent types, long-term treatment and monitoring may be required.
• The condition also occurs in children, and individual variation in recovery is significant.