Hair Condition

Alopecia Areata

An autoimmune condition causing sudden, well-defined patches of hair loss, with a genuinely unpredictable course.

Noticed a sudden, round patch of hair loss?

This is the classic presentation of alopecia areata. An evaluation confirms the diagnosis and rules out other causes of patchy hair loss.

Dealing with recurring or multiple patches?

We'll discuss treatment options for the current episode and strategies for managing a condition that can recur over time.

What Is It?

Alopecia areata occurs when the immune system mistakenly attacks hair follicles, causing sudden, well-defined patches of hair loss, most commonly on the scalp but occasionally elsewhere on the body. It’s distinct from pattern hair loss and requires a different diagnostic and treatment approach, usually confirmed on examination alone or with dermoscopy.

The course of alopecia areata is genuinely unpredictable: some patches regrow spontaneously without treatment, others respond well to treatment, and the condition can recur, sometimes in new areas, over months or years. It’s somewhat more common in people with a personal or family history of other autoimmune conditions, such as thyroid disease.

Risk Factors

Personal or family history of autoimmune conditions
Personal or family history of alopecia areata specifically

Symptoms

Well-defined, round or oval patches of hair loss
Sudden onset, often noticed over days to weeks
Occasionally affects nails as well as hair

Treatment

Intralesional Steroid Injections: First-line treatment for localized patches, delivered directly into the affected area.
Topical Therapy: Used for children, extensive involvement, or where injections aren't suitable.

Learn more about Alopecia Areata Treatment →