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A condition characterised by patchy hair loss in localised areas of the body. It mainly affects the head and beard in men, but can affect the whole body, known as alopecia areata universalis. Research suggests that it may affect 1 in 1,000 people.
It is caused by an autoimmune disorder in people with a genetic predisposition.
The area of hair loss is rounded and the remaining skin is smooth and pink, with no signs of irritation or inflammation.
It is diagnosed clinically by clinical interview and physical examination.
It can be treated with local injections of subcutaneous corticosteroids. There are also a number of experimental treatments with 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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