Signs and Symptoms of Alopecia
Alopecia is an autoimmune disease in which the body attacks its own hair follicles. Hair can be lost from any part of the body. Alopecia areata is the mildest form of the condition, marked by hair loss that is partial or patchy on the scalp or on other parts of the body. Alopecia totalis involves the loss of all facial and scalp hair, and alopecia universalis is the total loss of all body hair.
Only a very small percentage of people will have total hair loss. Often alopecia areata is seen along with other autoimmune disorders, particularly autoimmune thyroiditis, lupus, Addison’s disease, vitiligo and diabetes. We have put together a list of the most common signs and symptoms of alopecia below. Also, we have information on diagnosis, helpful books and valuable resources for patients.
The Most Common Signs and Symptoms of Alopecia
- hair loss, usually round or oval hairless patches, usually on the scalp
- brittle nails
- burning sensation
- itching
The primary symptom is hair loss, with round hairless patches. Most people present with only one patch, about the size of a quarter. The most frequent location is the scalp. In somerare cases, hair is lost from the eyebrows and extremities. In a very small percentage of cases, hair is lost over the entire body.
Diagnosis of Alopecia
There are no specific tests for alopecia, and a diagnosis is made based upon the doctor’s clinical observation. The practitioners with the greatest knowledge and experience with alopecia are dermatologists.
Most people will spontaneously regrow hair within several months to a year, with or without treatment. Once you’ve had an episode of alopecia, however, you have a 90 percent chance of having a recurrence within five years. In a small percentage of patients, the hair loss is permanent.
Books for People With Signs and Symptoms of Alopecia
| Alopecia Areata: Understanding and Coping with Hair Loss Wendy J. A. Thompson |
Hair Loss: Principles of Diagnosis and Management of Alopecia Jerry Shapiro |
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| The Girl With No Hair: A Story About Alopecia Areata (Health Press for Kids) Elizabeth Murphy-Melas |
Alopecia Areata – A Medical Dictionary, Bibliography, and Annotated Research Guide to Internet References – SECOND EDITION Icon Group International |
What Causes Alopecia?
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Genetic predisposition
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The presence of other autoimmune disorder
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Certain drugs, such as the breast cancer drug Tamoxifen
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Heavy metal poisoning
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Hormonal imbalance, especially levels of estrogen and testosterone
Alopecia Areata Resources
General Patient Resources
- National Alopecia Areata Foundation (NAAF) www.naaf.org
Just Diagnosed? Living with Alopecia Areata; Research; Our Stories & Photos; Support & Resources; Programs & Events; Products for People with Alopecia.
- Alopecia Online www.alopeciaonline.org.uk/resources.asp
Here’s where to find further information on all things alopecia-related. You can catch up on the latest research, find links to useful organisations, read up on books you may find helpful or browse through our supplier’s directory.
- Alopecia Areata Info . com http://www.alopeciaareatainfo.com/alopecia-areata-resources.shtml
Comprehensive resources on Alopecia Areata and hair loss treatment. Detailed info on causes of alopecia areata & its treatment
- keratin.com www.keratin.com
This site offers a wealth of information on treatments and new research.
Medical Resources
- American Academny of Dermatology, 930 N. Meacham Rd., P.O. Box 4014, Schaumburg IL 60168, 847-330-0230 www.aad.org
- Medline Plus Encyclopedia www.mdlinx.com/dermatology/resource/resource.cfm/alopecia