Alopecia Areata

Causes and Triggers:

1. Autoimmune Response:
   • Cause: The body’s immune system mistakenly attacks its own hair follicles.
   • Triggers: Genetic predisposition, stress, and environmental factors may contribute to the onset.
2. Genetic Factors:
   • Cause: A family history of autoimmune conditions or Alopecia Areata.
   • Triggers: Genetic predisposition can make certain individuals more susceptible.
3. Environmental Influences:
   • Cause: Exposure to certain viruses or environmental factors.
   • Triggers: Infections, trauma, or stress can play a role in initiating or exacerbating the condition.
4. Psychological Stress:
   • Cause: Emotional stress or trauma.
   • Triggers: Stressful life events or chronic emotional stress may contribute to the development of Alopecia Areata.

Symptoms:

1. Round Patches:
   • Hair loss typically occurs in small, round patches on the scalp or other hair-bearing areas.
2. Smooth, Bald Areas:
   • Affected areas often appear smooth and may exhibit short, broken hairs.
3. Nail Changes:
   • Some individuals may experience changes in the texture or appearance of their nails, such as pitting or ridges.

Treatment Options:

1. Topical Treatments:
   • Corticosteroid creams or ointments applied to the affected areas can help suppress the immune response.
2. Intralesional Corticosteroid Injections:
   • Injections of corticosteroids directly into the bald patches may stimulate hair regrowth.
3. Immunotherapy:
   • Chemicals like diphencyprone (DPCP) are applied to the scalp to induce an allergic reaction, promoting hair regrowth.
4. JAK Inhibitors:
   • Oral medications that inhibit Janus kinase enzymes, disrupting the immune response.
5. Light Therapy:
   • Exposure to ultraviolet A or B (UVA or UVB) light may stimulate hair regrowth.