Diagnosis and Treatment of Alopecia Areata

Diagnosis and Treatment of Alopecia Areata (Spot Baldness)

Alopecia areata is an autoimmune disease in which the hair follicles are mistakenly recognized as foreign by the body, leading to attacks on them. It is characterized by round, clearly defined areas of hair loss. This condition can affect all hair regions of the body, including the scalp, beard, and eyebrows. In some cases, it can lead to permanent hair loss.

Causes and Risk Factors of Alopecia Areata

1. Autoimmune Reaction: The immune system attacks the hair follicles, resulting in hair loss.

2. Genetic Predisposition: More commonly seen in individuals with a family history of the condition.

3. Stress and Trauma: Intense stress or trauma can trigger the disease.

4. Hormonal Imbalances: Can be associated with hormonal issues such as thyroid disorders.

5. Other Autoimmune Diseases: May occur alongside other autoimmune conditions like vitiligo and thyroid diseases.

Symptoms of Alopecia Areata

• Round and Clearly Defined Areas of Hair Loss: Small, round bald patches appear on the scalp or other areas of the body.
• Beard, Eyebrow, and Eyelash Loss: Alopecia can affect not only the scalp but also areas like the beard and eyebrows.
• No Changes in the Skin: The skin in the balding areas appears healthy; redness or crusting is generally absent.
• Nail Changes: Some patients may experience pitting and breakage in their nails.
• Hair Regrowth: Hair typically begins to regrow white or fine, but this may not always be permanent.

Diagnostic Methods

1. Clinical Examination: A dermatologist diagnoses based on the shape and distribution of hair loss.

2. Dermatoscopy: Detailed examination of the hair follicles is performed.

3. Blood Tests: Tests may be conducted to investigate thyroid diseases or other autoimmune conditions.

4. Biopsy: In suspicious cases, a biopsy may be taken from the scalp.

Treatment Methods for Alopecia Areata

1. Topical and Systemic Steroid Treatments

• Corticosteroid Creams: Steroid creams applied to the scalp suppress the immune response.
• Steroid Injections: Corticosteroids injected directly into the balding areas may be effective.
• Oral Steroids: Oral steroid therapy may be used in widespread cases.

2. Immunomodulatory and Immunosuppressive Treatments

• Topical Immunomodulators: Substances like diphenylcyclopropenone (DPCP) regulate the immune system.
• Methotrexate or Cyclosporine: Used to suppress the immune system in more resistant cases.

3. Minoxidil

• Applied topically to reduce hair loss and promote hair growth.

4. Low-Level Laser Therapy (LLLT)

• Increases the activity of hair follicles, promoting hair regrowth.

For detailed information and your questions, you can contact us via E-mail. If you prefer, you can follow us on our Instagram page.