Insights Into Alopecia Areata: A Systematic Review Of Prevalence, Pathogenesis, And Psychological Consequences

February 2024 in “ The Open dermatology journal ”

Emad Bahashwan, Mohja Alshehri

Alopecia Areata autoimmune condition non-scarring hair loss genetic factors environmental factors immune system factors stress anxiety depression AA hair loss bald patch

TLDR Alopecia Areata affects people of all ages worldwide, is likely caused by genetic and environmental factors, and can lead to stress and depression, highlighting the need for treatments that address both physical and mental health.

This systematic review analyzed 15 studies conducted between 2018 and 2023 to understand the prevalence, pathogenesis, and psychological impacts of Alopecia Areata (AA), an autoimmune condition causing non-scarring hair loss. The review found that AA affects all age groups globally, with about 60% of patients observing their first bald patch before the age of 30. The average lifetime risk of the condition is between 1.7 and 2.1%, and around 20% of instances involve minors. The condition is believed to be triggered by a combination of genetic, environmental, and immune system factors. Psychological factors such as stress, anxiety, and depression were found to play a significant role in the development of the disease. The review emphasized the need for comprehensive treatment options that include both medical and psychological therapy, and the importance of raising awareness, providing education, and creating support systems for people dealing with AA.

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Research cited in this study

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research ‘You Lose Your Hair, What’s the Big Deal?’ I Was So Embarrassed, I Was So Self-Conscious, I Was So Depressed: A Qualitative Interview Study to Understand the Psychosocial Burden of Alopecia Areata

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Alopecia affects patients' quality of life, with younger patients and longer-lasting hair loss experiencing greater impact.

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162 citations, October 2014 in “Autoimmunity reviews”

Alopecia areata is caused by the immune system attacking hair follicles.

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110 citations, December 2013 in “The journal of investigative dermatology. Symposium proceedings/The Journal of investigative dermatology symposium proceedings”

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.

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20 citations, December 2010 in “JEADV. Journal of the European Academy of Dermatology and Venereology/Journal of the European Academy of Dermatology and Venereology”

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A new type of rapid hair loss called ADTA usually gets better on its own within 6 months.

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