Alopecia Areata: The Disease of Hairless Patches on the Scalp and Any Area of Face

Alopecia areata (AA) is a common autoimmune disorder affecting up to 2% of the population, characterized by hair loss in distinct patches on the scalp or face, which can progress to total scalp hair loss (alopecia totalis) or complete body hair loss (alopecia universalis). The exact cause of AA remains unclear, but it is believed to involve an immunological attack on hair follicles due to a loss of immune privilege, with both environmental and genetic factors playing a role in its etiology. Treatments for AA include corticosteroids, immunomodulators, minoxidil, and contact immunotherapy, which aim to address the underlying immune dysfunction and promote hair regrowth.