Alopecia Areata: Clinical Presentation, Pathogenesis, and Treatment Options

The document discussed the clinical presentation, pathogenesis, and treatment options for alopecia areata (AA), highlighting the variability in its clinical manifestations, from small patches of hair loss to complete hair loss on the body and scalp. It emphasized the importance of trichoscopy and scalp biopsy in diagnosing AA and noted that nail changes, present in up to 66% of patients, could indicate more severe disease progression. The review also covered various treatment approaches, including topical, systemic, and injectable therapies, with a focus on the potential of Janus kinase inhibitors. The importance of a thorough nail examination in AA patients was stressed, as nail changes, though often subtle and asymptomatic, could significantly impact quality of life and suggest disease progression.