Alopecia areata
Alopecia areata is a type of hair loss that occurs when the immune system mistakenly attacks hair follicle roots, where hair growth begins. It is most common in people younger than 20, but children and adults of any age may be affected.
- Usually clumps of hair fall out, resulting in totally smooth, round hairless patches. In some cases the hair may become thinner without distinct patches of baldness. This may happen several times.
- In rare cases, complete loss of scalp hair and body hair occurs.
- Hair may regrow completely, partially, or not at all. In most people with the condition, the hair regrows within a year.
Medical treatments for alopecia areata may include medications that are either put on the scalp or injected. Because hair often regrows, treatment may not be necessary.
| Author | Jeannette Curtis |
| Author | Caroline Rea, RN, BS, MS |
| Editor | Kathleen M. Ariss, MS |
| Editor | Susan Van Houten, RN, BSN, MBA |
| Associate Editor | Tracy Landauer |
| Associate Editor | Pat Truman, MATC |
| Primary Medical Reviewer | Patrice Burgess, MD - Family Medicine |
| Primary Medical Reviewer | Adam Husney, MD - Family Medicine |
| Primary Medical Reviewer | Kathleen Romito, MD - Family Medicine |
| Last Updated | May 25, 2007 |
WebMD Medical Reference from Healthwise
Last Updated:
May 25, 2007
This information is not intended to replace the advice of a doctor.
Healthwise disclaims any liability for the decisions you make based on this
information.
© 1995-2008 Healthwise, Incorporated. Healthwise, Healthwise for every health decision, and the Healthwise logo are trademarks of Healthwise, Incorporated.