Health A-Z

It seems you're referring to "Alopecia areata," which is a type of hair loss condition. Here's an overview of its symptoms, treatment, and diagnosis.

1. Patchy Hair Loss: Alopecia areata typically presents as round or oval patches of hair loss on the scalp or other hair-bearing areas of the body.
2. Smooth, Hairless Patches: The affected areas may be completely devoid of hair, and the skin may appear smooth and normal.
3. Regrowth: Hair loss may occur suddenly, and in some cases, spontaneous regrowth of hair may occur within a few months. However, the condition can be unpredictable, with periods of relapse and remission.
4. Nail Changes: Some individuals with alopecia areata may experience nail changes, such as pitting or ridges on the nails.

1. Topical Treatments: Corticosteroid creams, ointments, or solutions applied directly to the affected areas can help reduce inflammation and stimulate hair regrowth.
2. Intralesional Corticosteroid Injections: Injections of corticosteroids directly into the bald patches can be effective for promoting hair regrowth.
3. Oral Medications: Oral corticosteroids or other immunosuppressive medications may be prescribed for more extensive or severe cases of alopecia areata.
4. Topical Immunotherapy: This involves applying a sensitizing substance to the skin to trigger an allergic reaction, which may stimulate hair regrowth.
5. Light Therapy: Phototherapy with ultraviolet (UV) light may help stimulate hair regrowth in some individuals.
6. Hair Transplantation: In cases of severe or permanent hair loss, hair transplantation may be considered as a surgical option to restore hair growth.

1. Clinical Examination: A healthcare provider will typically diagnose alopecia areata based on the characteristic appearance of the hair loss patches.
2. Medical History: Information about the onset and duration of hair loss, as well as any family history of autoimmune conditions, may be relevant.
3. Skin Biopsy: In some cases, a skin biopsy may be performed to confirm the diagnosis and rule out other causes of hair loss.