TLDR Alopecia areata is a genetic and immune-related hair loss condition that is often associated with other autoimmune diseases and does not typically cause permanent damage to hair follicles.
Alopecia areata was a genetic, immune-mediated disease causing hair loss in both children and adults, often linked with conditions like asthma and thyroid disease. Affecting 6-7 million people in the U.S., it did not permanently damage hair follicles, allowing for potential regrowth. Genetic studies identified several loci related to immune system functions. Despite various treatments, there was no cure, prompting exploration of new therapies targeting immune pathways and neuropeptide functions. The National Alopecia Areata Foundation initiated programs to accelerate treatment development.
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421 citations
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April 2012 in “The New England Journal of Medicine” Alopecia Areata is an autoimmune condition causing hair loss with no cure and treatments that often don't work well.
25 citations
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May 2011 in “Dermatologic therapy” New treatments for alopecia areata may target specific immune cells and pathways involved in hair loss.
244 citations
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February 2010 in “Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology” The document says current treatments for alopecia areata do not cure or prevent it, and it's hard to judge their effectiveness due to spontaneous remission and lack of studies.
79 citations
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September 2009 in “Pediatric dermatology” The 308-nm Excimer laser is effective and safe for treating patchy alopecia areata in children.
30 citations
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September 2009 in “Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology” Bimatoprost is safe but not effective for severe eyelash loss from alopecia areata, possibly helping those with less loss.
295 citations
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April 2006 in “Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology” Alopecia areata, a common autoimmune hair loss condition, often runs in families.
January 2023 in “International Journal of Homoeopathic Sciences” Homoeopathic treatment may help restore hair in Alopecia Areata by balancing the immune system.
148 citations
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March 2019 in “Journal of autoimmunity” Alopecia areata is an autoimmune disease causing patchy hair loss, often with other autoimmune disorders, but its exact causes are unknown.
May 2018 in “Journal of cosmetology & trichology” Combining platelet-rich plasma therapy with prostaglandin-F eye drops can significantly regrow hair in alopecia universalis.
3 citations
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May 2010 in “Nursing Standard” Treatments for autoimmune hair loss have limited success and often relapse, and emotional support is crucial for those affected.
