Alopecia- Baldness in Spots

Alopecia is a medical term referring to the hair loss from any part of the human body (head being the most commonly affected site). When head is affected, this can lead to total baldness.

When the hair loss is from one part it is known as Alopecia Areata (AA). It occurs mostly on one side of the head. Bald patches appear on the affected area. The condition affecting the beard region only is termed Alopecia Areata Barbae.

Alopecia is said to be caused by abnormal immune system. In this condition, the immune system attacks the hair follicles and decreases their growth. Normally no cells of immune system are present in the hair follicles but these can be seen in the biopsy of the affected area. Exact underlying cause of this is still unknown.

Alopecia may occur in children, teenagers or adults. It is common in men than in women. This condition is different from normal hair fall.

Some other underlying diseases may also be responsible for alopecia. These conditions include thyroid disorders, allergic disorders, dieting or chemotherapy of cancer patients. It may have hereditary origin as well.

Normally alopecia tends to disappear spontaneously within a year. However, hair loss can be permanent sometimes, if the condition is left untreated.

Treatment of alopecia starts with the testing of the hair sample. If the cause is only viral or fungal infection it is treated accordingly. Sometimes if dandruff is present it should be treated first. If reasons are other than these, then consulting a dermatologist becomes necessary for treatment. Medications (corticosteroids) are then considered necessary.

Some of the preventive measures include washing hair with a good shampoo atleast twice a week, taking a healthy diet rich in proteins and iron and drinking plenty of water. Leading a stress free life and limiting the use of artificial things on the hair are also useful tips.