Alopecia Areata

Question 1

What type of condition is it?

Answer 1

Autoimmune

Question 2

Describe the hair loss

Answer 2

Localised
Well demarcated patches of hair loss

A bald patch or thinning of hair may be noticed incidentally

Question 3

What can occur at the edges of hair loss?

Answer 3

Small, broken ‘exclamation mark’ hairs

Question 4

Hair regrowth occurs in what percentage by 1 year?

Answer 4

50%

And in 80-90% eventually

Question 5

Does it have a direct impact on general, physical health?

Answer 5

No, but can have a psychological impact, which may affect general health

Question 6

Who gets alone is areata?

Answer 6

Males and females at any age

FH of alopecia or other autoimmune conditions present in 10-25%

Question 7

What conditions do those with alopecia areata have a higher rate of?

Answer 7

Thyroid disease
Vitiligo
Atopic eczema

Question 8

What symptoms can occur?

Answer 8

Most are asymptomatic

Some - burning, prickling sensation in affected areas = trichodynia

Question 9

Can nail disease occur?

Answer 9

Yes 10-50% have associated nail disease

Pitting and ridging

Question 10

What autoimmune conditions should you screen for?

Answer 10

Thyroid disease - TFTs
DM - HbA1C
Pernicious anaemia - B12