TLDR Diffuse alopecia areata causes widespread hair thinning due to an autoimmune response.
Diffuse alopecia areata (AA) was identified as a distinct form of alopecia areata characterized by widespread scalp hair thinning rather than the typical patchy hair loss. It was a non-scarring condition that posed diagnostic challenges. The pathophysiology was not fully understood, but it was thought to involve an autoimmune response targeting anagen stage hair follicles, potentially affecting melanocytes, dermal papilla cells, and keratinocytes. Diffuse AA was noted for its intense inflammation and rapid progression compared to patchy AA, with inflammatory infiltrates including mononuclear cells, eosinophils, CD3+ T cells, and CD8+ T cells.
67 citations
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January 2013 in “Indian Journal of Dermatology, Venereology and Leprology” The document concludes that alopecia areata is an autoimmune disease without a definitive cure, but treatments like corticosteroids are commonly used.
24 citations
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January 2012 in “Indian Journal of Dermatology, Venereology and Leprology” Diffuse alopecia areata involves more inflammation and higher allergy-related antibodies than patchy types.
151 citations
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February 2007 in “International Journal of Dermatology” Alopecia areata causes hair loss, has no cure, and various treatments exist.
67 citations
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November 2002 in “Journal of The American Academy of Dermatology” The document concludes that careful evaluation is key to diagnose and treat women with hair loss, with tests for thyroid, iron, and hormones as needed.
April 2019 in “International journal of research in dermatology” A child with rough nails also had hair loss and allergies.
37 citations
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October 2017 in “Clinical and Experimental Dermatology” Oral tofacitinib shows promise in treating atopic dermatitis and alopecia areata, but only slight improvement in vitiligo.
18 citations
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January 2010 in “Dermatology Research and Practice” DPCP treatment for alopecia areata can sometimes cause vitiligo.
