Alopecia Areata Incognita: Current Evidence

Alopecia areata incognita (AAI) is a subtype of alopecia areata that presents as sudden diffuse hair loss, often resembling telogen effluvium, and is sometimes associated with androgenetic alopecia. It primarily affects women aged 20-40 and is diagnosed through clinical, trichoscopic, and histopathologic evaluations, with trichoscopy showing yellow dots and pigtail hairs. A dermoscopy-guided biopsy is recommended for accurate diagnosis. AAI is linked to autoimmune conditions and responds well to treatments like high-potency topical steroids and intralesional steroids, with a generally favorable prognosis. The review emphasizes the need for more extensive studies to establish clear diagnostic criteria and treatment protocols, as current knowledge is based on limited observational studies and case reports.