What is Alopecia Areata?
Alopecia Areata is an autoimmune process in which the immune system erroneously attacks hair follicles and leads to hair loss. This disorder can target men, women, and children, and can occur in different modalities:-
- Patchy Hair Loss - The most frequent type, characterized by small, round areas of hair loss.
- Alopecia Totalis - Complete loss of hair on the scalp.
- Alopecia Universalis - Unsteady/lossy body hair covering the entire head (top and nape), and eyebrows, eyelashes. Although, the etiology of Alopecia Areata is yet to be identified, it is believed to include genetic predisposition and environmental stimuli.
Causes of Alopecia Areata
The specific pathogenesis of Alopecia Areata remains unclear, but the following factors seem to play a significant role in its development:-
- Genetics - Family history of autoimmune disease is a risk factor for Alopecia Areata.
- Immune System Dysregulation - The immune system targets hair follicles as though they are foreign invaders.
- Stress - Stress, either emotional or physical, can lead to or be aggravated.
- Environmental Factors - Exposure to specific viruses, allergens or toxins may act as stimuli.
Symptoms to Watch For
Alopecia Areata manifests through a range of symptoms, including:-
- Sudden hair loss in small, round patches.
- Smooth, hairless areas on the scalp or body.
- Tingling or itching in the affected areas.
- Alterations in nail (including pitting, ridging, or brittleness).
Diagnosis and treatment plan should always be discussed with a dermatologist for the proper answer.
Diagnosing Alopecia Areata
Diagnosis usually depends on a physical examination of the hair and scalp. In other cases, more examinations may be required, as follows:-
- Trichoscopy - A detailed examination of hair follicles using a dermatoscope.
- Scalp Biopsy - A scalp biopsy is performed and examined to confirm a diagnosis.
- Blood Tests - These tests are used to diagnose other autoimmune diseases that could be associated with Alopecia Areata.
Available Alopecia Areata Treatment Options in Delhi
Even though there is no cure for Alopecia Areata, different therapies can still manage this condition and restore hair. Treatment options include:-
Topical Treatments
- Corticosteroids - Anti-inflammatory creams or ointments for the scalp may inhibit immune activity.
- Minoxidil - A common remedy for loss of hair that can be used to speed the regrowth up.
- Anthralin - A tar-like substance that modulates immune response in the skin.
Androgenetic alopecia..3 month results
Oral Medications
- Corticosteroids - Oral steroids may be prescribed for more severe cases.
- JAK Inhibitors - Newer drugs that modulate specific immune pathways to attenuate inflammation and hair loss.
Injectable Treatments
- Corticosteroid Injections - Direct injections into bald patches can stimulate hair regrowth.
Light Therapy
- Phototherapy - This includes the therapeutic exposure of the skin to ultraviolet (UV) radiation.
Alternative Therapies
- Acupuncture and Herbal Remedies - Although not scientifically indicated, certain patients find these strategies helpful.
- Stress Management Techniques - Practices like yoga, meditation, and counseling can help reduce triggers linked to stress.
