TLDR Gut bacteria differences may help diagnose and treat Alopecia areata.
Recent research suggests a significant relationship between gut microbiota and Alopecia areata (AA), an autoimmune disorder causing hair loss. Studies have identified specific gut microbial differences in AA patients compared to healthy controls, indicating potential biomarkers for early diagnosis and novel therapeutic targets. Fecal microbiota transplantation (FMT) has shown promise in preliminary cases, with some AA patients experiencing hair regrowth post-FMT. However, more comprehensive research is needed to understand the gut microbiota-host interaction, develop precise diagnostic tools, and establish effective FMT protocols for AA treatment.
40 citations,
September 2019 in “World journal of clinical cases” An elderly man's hair grew back after a treatment that transferred healthy gut bacteria.
37 citations,
January 2019 in “JAMA Dermatology” People with Major Depressive Disorder have a higher chance of getting Alopecia Areata, and vice versa; antidepressants may lower this risk.
191 citations,
May 2018 in “British journal of dermatology/British journal of dermatology, Supplement” Alopecia areata is likely an autoimmune disease with unclear triggers, involving various immune cells and molecules, and currently has no cure.
16 citations,
June 2017 in “Advances in Therapy” New treatments for hair loss are showing promise due to better understanding of genetics and the immune system.
391 citations,
January 2010 in “Journal of The American Academy of Dermatology” Half of people with Alopecia Areata may see hair regrowth within a year without treatment, but recovery is unpredictable.
October 2023 in “Acta dermato-venereologica (Print)” People with severe hair loss have lower zinc levels in their blood.
3 citations,
June 2023 in “Frontiers in medicine” Oxidative stress may contribute to hair loss in alopecia areata and antioxidants could potentially help as a treatment.
No cure exists for alopecia areata; treatments aim to manage symptoms.
79 citations,
December 2013 in “Journal of Investigative Dermatology Symposium Proceedings” Alopecia areata may be treated by restoring hair follicle immune privilege and adjusting immune responses.
295 citations,
January 2006 in “Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology” Alopecia areata, a common autoimmune hair loss condition, often runs in families.
185 citations,
August 2005 in “Autoimmunity Reviews” Alopecia areata is an autoimmune condition causing hair loss due to the immune system attacking hair follicles, often influenced by genetics and stress.
