Alopecia Areata: Current Status and Perspectives

The document discussed alopecia areata (AA), a non-scarring hair loss condition with an unknown etiology involving environmental, immunological, and genetic factors. Affecting 1-2% of the global population, AA was slightly more common in women and associated with autoimmune diseases. Diagnosis was based on clinical history and dermatoscopy, while treatment options like topical immunotherapy and corticosteroids existed but lacked universal acceptance due to variable responses and potential adverse effects. The document highlighted the emotional impact of AA, especially in severe cases and children, and the need for new treatments targeting autoimmune or inflammatory processes. Genetic studies identified polymorphisms in genes like NOS3, FAS, FOXP3, and TNFA, linking them to AA susceptibility and severity, suggesting potential therapeutic strategies.