Anterolateral Leg Alopecia: Common but Commonly Ignored

A 46-year-old man was diagnosed with anterolateral leg alopecia, a common but under-recognized condition characterized by nonscarring hair loss confined to the anterolateral area of the lower legs. The condition, which has a prevalence of up to 35% among middle-aged males, is benign and often does not require treatment. The patient had no improvement with topical antifungals and steroids, and a skin biopsy was declined. The cause of anterolateral leg alopecia is still unknown, with leg crossing, trouser rubbing, friction, peripheral vascular disease, and thyroid dysfunction all suggested as possible contributing factors. No treatment has been proven effective in stimulating hair regrowth, and patient education and reassurance are typically sufficient. The condition's histopathology shows a lack of hair follicles but is otherwise unremarkable, and it is not associated with male pattern hair loss. The case emphasizes the need for awareness of this condition, despite the scarcity of information on its cause, pathogenesis, course, and treatment.