patchy alopecia areata

Alopecia areata is an autoimmune disease that causes hair loss, typically in round or oval patches on the scalp and face. This condition can be chronic, with varying degrees of severity. While there is no cure, treatments are available to stimulate hair regrowth.

The most common form is patchy alopecia areata. Other types include alopecia totalis (complete scalp hair loss) and alopecia universalis (total body hair loss). Symptoms can include sudden hair loss, brittle nails, and sometimes itching or tingling in affected areas. It affects about 2 percent of the global population and can be influenced by genetic and environmental factors. Treatments may involve corticosteroids, minoxidil, or immunotherapy, though some individuals opt for hairpieces or cosmetic solutions.12