Alopecia Areta
March 2nd, 2008 Filed Under Uncategorized
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Alopecia areta is a disease leading to baldness of certain spots on the scalp. Hair loss may also affect other parts of the body but the scalp is most common. In the US, around 2% of the population is said to have suffered at some point in their lives from alopecia areta.
This is a disease mainly associated to the immune system, which is said to attack the hair follicles, specifically the root, which is why hair goes off and does not grow back. The cause of this particular behaviour of the immune system is not yet clearly defined by studies in the past although it is said to have strong relation to heredity. Around 20% of people with alopecia areta have relatives who also had the same condition.
Alopecia areta may affect any person in the world, regardless of gender or ethnic background. Young adults and children are most commonly affected, although the possibility is still there for all ages.
This condition begins as a small, coin-size patch on the scalp. Eventually, these patches increase in size and number. There are usually no earlier symptoms, although some patients complain of scalp or skin itching before the occurrence of the patch. In some people, even the nails are affected. In these cases, the edges of the nails become crooked and dented.
Commonly, a dermatologist would be able to tell with simple examination of the scalp if it is indeed alopecia areta. However, a biopsy of the scalp would be more accurate and can further confirm the results of the examination.
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