Ringworm, or alopecia areata in medical terms, is a common autoimmune disease that causes localized hair loss. Autoimmune diseases are usually a condition in which the body shows aggression against its own cells. In this disease, the affected area is the hair follicles. This condition usually manifests itself as hair loss in round patches the size of a coin. In some people it can occur in a few areas, while in others it can be more serious. In rare cases, ringworm can affect all hair and the hair on the scalp may disappear completely. In more severe cases, all hair on the body may be lost.
Alopecia areata, commonly known as spot baldness, is an autoimmune condition characterized by regional hair loss affecting hair follicles and sometimes nails. Initially, these hair losses appear as small patches that may seem insignificant. Over time, these patches can merge, leading to noticeable hair loss in a specific area.
There are various forms of alopecia areata, each exhibiting distinct characteristics. In addition to sudden and regional hair loss on the scalp, some cases may involve eyebrows, eyelashes, beard, and other body hairs. In certain instances, this condition progresses slowly over years with a tendency to recur.
Alopecia areata encompasses several subtypes. The most common subtype is when all hair on the scalp is affected, termed “alopecia totalis.” When this extends to affect hair across the entire body, it is known as “alopecia universalis.” Another subtype is “diffuse alopecia areata,” where hair thins and weakens suddenly without distinct bald patches. Cases where hair loss occurs in band-like patterns around the back of the head and neck instead of circular patches are referred to as “ophiasis.”
Alopecia areata is an autoimmune condition. In autoimmune disorders, the immune system mistakenly identifies healthy body cells as foreign invaders and produces antibodies against them. This disorder arises from the immune system’s incorrect evaluation of hair follicles. Hair follicles are structures that facilitate hair growth. Damage to these structures halts hair growth, resulting in hair loss. The precise trigger underlying alopecia remains unclear at present. Alopecia areata is often more prevalent in individuals with a family history of autoimmune diseases such as thyroid gland disorders, diabetes mellitus, and rheumatoid arthritis. Therefore, it is believed that genetic factors contribute to triggering this condition.
Factors that may pose a risk and could be considered as causes of alopecia areata development include:
In addition to genetic factors, various environmental factors can also play a role in the onset of this condition. Stress is a significant environmental factor among these.
The most noticeable symptom of alopecia areata is patchy hair loss in round or oval shapes. This hair loss typically begins on the scalp and is about the size of a coin. Apart from the scalp, alopecia areata can also start in the beard and eyebrow areas. The hair loss develops quite suddenly and can occur over a period ranging from 5 days to 5 weeks. In addition to hair loss, some individuals may experience itching and burning sensation in the affected area. It’s important to note that hair follicles do not completely disappear in this condition.
Surface hair can regrow if inflammation in the hair follicles decreases. In some cases, without treatment, hair loss in localized areas can improve on its own. However, in one-third of cases, the course of alopecia areata may worsen, or regional hair loss may recur in cycles over specific periods of time. In one out of ten patients, alopecia areata may progress to affect other areas of the body.
Alopecia areata can also cause changes in the nails of the hands and feet. These changes are particularly seen in cases of alopecia areata in children. It’s important to be cautious as these nail changes can sometimes be the initial signs of the disease:
In addition to these nail symptoms, other clinical findings during alopecia areata can include:
The course of alopecia areata can vary greatly from person to person, and the progression can be unpredictable. While some individuals may see normal hair regrowth in affected areas, others may experience no regrowth or even worsening hair loss.
Factors indicating a potentially severe course of alopecia areata include early onset of the disease, extensive hair loss, accompanying nail changes, family history of the condition, and presence of other autoimmune diseases in the individual.
After presenting with symptoms of alopecia areata, healthcare providers can diagnose the condition primarily through clinical observation. If necessary, a few hair samples may be taken and examined under a microscope.
In individuals suspected of having accompanying autoimmune disorders, blood tests can be useful for further investigation. Diagnosis of autoimmune diseases involves detecting antibodies synthesized by the immune system in the body. Diagnostic approaches for alopecia areata may include the following tests:
Alopecia areata is not contagious, but in some cases, a biopsy may be performed to rule out fungal infections like tinea capitis, which are characterized by hair loss. Skin biopsy can also help clarify diffuse forms of alopecia.
Another answer to how alopecia areata is identified lies in dermoscopy. Dermoscopy is another useful diagnostic tool that can be utilized for diagnosing alopecia areata. Through dermoscopy, healthcare providers can examine the affected area for signs such as yellow or black dots, hair breakage, short vellus hairs, and “exclamation mark” hairs.
Managing alopecia areata involves various medical interventions aimed at reducing hair loss and promoting regrowth of shed hair. The recovery process for alopecia areata can be quite intricate. In some cases, trying different treatment methods can help determine which approach is most effective for an individual. Severe cases may experience worsening hair loss despite various medical interventions.
Applying creams containing corticosteroids or substances that locally increase blood flow to the affected area, administering steroid injections, or prescribing medications can be approaches that may effectively reverse hair loss in some individuals. Apart from steroid treatments, other methods such as immunosuppressive drugs, medications that support hair growth, or ultraviolet light therapy may also be used in the treatment of alopecia areata.
While alopecia areata is not a life-threatening condition, it can cause dissatisfaction and anxiety related to one’s appearance. If you notice symptoms and signs of this condition on your body, seeking support from healthcare professionals is recommended.
As Esteworld expert hair transplant doctors, personalized hair treatment is applied according to the cause of hair loss. You can contact us for detailed information about hair transplantation and our treatments.
Alopecia areata is an autoimmune condition where the immune system attacks hair follicles, causing sudden hair loss in patches.
Yes, treatments like corticosteroids, immunotherapy, and PRP can help stimulate hair regrowth and manage the condition.
The condition can affect anyone, regardless of age or gender, but it often develops in younger individuals.
Yes, Esteworld provides personalized treatment plans for alopecia areata to promote hair regrowth and manage symptoms.
Turkey’s advanced dermatology and hair restoration clinics make it a top choice for effective alopecia treatments.
As Esteworld Health Group, Turkey’s plastic and aesthetic surgery-focused service provider, we have been offering aesthetic services at high medical standards for more than 25 years with the motto ‘Healthy beauty!
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