Alopecia Areata Flashcards
What is alopecia areata?
Alopecia areata is an autoimmune disorder that causes hair loss in small, round patches on the scalp or other parts of the body.
What triggers alopecia areata?
The exact cause is unknown, but it’s believed to be triggered by a malfunction in the immune system that targets hair follicles.
Who is most at risk for alopecia areata?
It can affect anyone at any age, but it’s more common in people under 30 and those with a family history of the condition.
Is alopecia areata permanent?
Not necessarily. Hair can regrow, but the condition can also progress or recur.
How is alopecia areata diagnosed?
Diagnosis is usually made through a clinical examination, and sometimes a scalp biopsy is performed for confirmation.
What are the treatment options for alopecia areata?
Treatments may include corticosteroid injections, topical medications and sometimes oral medications, although there is no guaranteed cure.
Can lifestyle changes help manage alopecia areata?
While lifestyle changes won’t cure the condition, reducing stress and maintaining a healthy diet may help improve overall well-being.
Is alopecia areata contagious?
No
What is alopecia totalis?
Alopecia totalis is a more advanced form of alopecia areata that results in total hair loss on the scalp.
What is alopecia universalis?
Alopecia universalis is the most severe form of alopecia areata, leading to complete hair loss all over the body, including eyebrows and eyelashes.
What is ophiasis alopecia
Ophiasis alopecia is a subtype of alopecia areata characterised by hair loss in a band-like pattern at the sides and lower back of the scalp.
What is diffuse alopecia areata?
Diffuse alopecia areata causes sudden and unexpected thinning of the hair all over the scalp, rather than discrete, round patches.
what is alopecia incognita?
This is a rare form of alopecia areata where hair loss occurs without the characteristic round patches. It’s often mistaken for other types of hair loss disorders.
What is alopecia areata monolocularis?
This refers to alopecia areata that presents as a single bald patch on the scalp or body.
What is alopecia areata multilocularis?
This form involves multiple areas of hair loss on the scalp or body but not to the extent of total or universal hair loss.
Can nails be affected by alopecia areata?
Yes, some people experience changes to their nails, such as pitting (small dents) or white spots.
Describe Diffuse Alopecia Areata
Presents as a sudden thinning of hair across the scalp rather than distinct bald patches.
Describe Ophiasis Alopecia Areata
Hair loss in a band-like pattern around the sides and lower back of the scalp.
Describe Serpentine Alopecia
Hair loss occurs in a snake-like pattern on the scalp, characterized by elongated, curving patches of hair loss.
Describe Alopecia Areata Barbae
Specifically affects the beard area in men, leading to patchy hair loss.
Describe Alopecia Areata Incognita
A rare form marked by diffuse hair thinning without typical patches, often mistaken for other types of hair loss like telogen effluvium.
Describe Alopecia Areata Monolocularis
Hair loss is restricted to a single patch on the scalp or body.
Describe Alopecia Areata Multilocularis
Features multiple areas of hair loss on the scalp or body, but not as extensive as Alopecia Totalis or Universalis.
