Very low urgency
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It is characterized by patchy hair loss in localized areas of the body. It mainly affects the head and beard in men, but it can affect the whole body and is called alopecia areata universalis. According to records, it affects 1 in 1000 people.
It is caused by an autoimmune disorder, in people with a genetic predisposition.
The hair loss is circular in shape and leaves an area of smooth, pink skin, with no signs of irritation or inflammation.
Diagnosis is clinical by questioning and physical examination.
It can be treated with local injection of subcutaneous corticosteroids. There are multiple experimental treatments with as yet unproven efficacy.
- Andrew G Messenger. Clinical manifestations and diagnosis of alopecia areata. UpToDate, Enero 2015
- Madani S. Alopecia areata update. J Am Acad Dermatol 2000; 42:549.
- Andrew G Messenger. Management of alopecia areata. UpToDate, Mayo 2016
- Messenger AG. British Association of Dermatologists' guidelines for the management of alopecia areata 2012. Br J Dermatol 2012; 166:916.
- Chang KH. Treatment of severe alopecia areata with intralesional steroid injections. J Drugs Dermatol 2009; 8:909.
Dr. Patricia Sánchez
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