Alopecia Areata

Alopecia areata is autoimmune T-cell-mediated non-scarring hair loss (patchy/ophiasis/totalis/universalis), presenting with well-demarcated round bald patches, exclamation-mark hairs, often associated with atopy/thyroid/vitiligo. Treatment: reassurance (many self-resolve); topical/intralesional corticosteroids (triamcinolone) for limited; topical minoxidil; topical immunotherapy (DCP/SADBE) for extensive; systemic corticosteroids for rapid/progressive; JAK inhibitors (tofacitinib/baricitinib) for severe refractory; evaluate atopy/thyroid/vitiligo; wig/cosmetic camouflage; follow-up dermatology.

Common Symptoms

Well-demarcated round bald patches; exclamation-mark hairs; autoimmune

Causes and Pathogenesis

Autoimmune T-cell attack on anagen follicles causes non-scarring hair loss.

Treatment

Topical/intralesional steroids; minoxidil; topical immunotherapy; JAK inhibitors

Preventive Measures

Reassurance; manage stress; treat associated autoimmune disease.

Department to Visit

It is recommended to visit the Dermatology department; an appointment can be booked on this platform before the visit.

Warm reminder: The above information is for health science reference only and cannot replace professional medical diagnosis. If you have related symptoms, please seek medical attention at a regular hospital promptly.