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Philadelphia and Mainline Center of Dermatology and Cosmetic Surgery

Written by Dr. Ringpfeil

Alopecia Areata Treatment

Alopecia Areata - Overview

Alopecia areata is a disorder that affects hair follicles and is reflected in round patches of hair loss. Normally, the immune system functions to protect the body against infection and disease. In alopecia areata, the body's immune system mistakenly recognizes hair follicles as foreign and attacks them. The cause is not known, but the prevailing scientific hypothesis is that genetics plays a significant role in predisposition and a trigger initiates the attack on the hair follicles.

Diagnosis

Alopecia areata often begins in childhood. The risk is significantly increased if you have a close family member afflicted with the disease. Emotional or physical trauma typically precedes hair loss by up to 3 months. Hair falls out in small, round patches leaving a smooth hairless scalp in affected areas. The degree of hair loss varies from one bare patch to considerable balding.

In rare cases, the disease causes a complete loss of hair on the scalp (alopecia totalis) or total body (alopecia Universalis). Rarely, alopecia areata presents as diffuse hair loss, widespread hair loss across the scalp. On occasion, a scalp biopsy may be performed. If additional signs or symptoms are present, blood tests may reveal other autoimmune conditions.

Management

In most instances, the hair regrows spontaneously; however, this process takes several months. When alopecia areata is located on the scalp and cannot easily be hidden by covering hair or clever hairstyles, the psychological impact of alopecia areata can be severe. There is no makeup that imitates hair and a hat may be inappropriate in a school or working environment. A wig can temporarily become necessary.

Treatment and Medication

Alopecia areata is difficult to treat and only a few treatments have been assessed in randomized controlled trials. The most common treatments seem to facilitate faster regrowth of hair rather than treat the underlying problem. Typical therapy includes topical corticosteroids, steroid injection under the skin surface, and ultraviolet light therapy, especially narrowband UVB.

Topical drugs may be applied to hairless areas to stimulate hair growth. Rarely, systemic immunosuppressive treatments are used. Some people with alopecia areata try alternative treatments including acupuncture and Chinese herbs. There is no cure for alopecia areata.

Coping

Many are profoundly upset by their hair loss and some may require psychological support. It might be difficult to cope with relapse following or during initially successful treatment. These considerations are particularly important in children, as the hair loss condition can make them feel less comfortable socializing and making friends. Contact with other sufferers or a patient support group is strongly recommended.

Prevention

When emotional stress is the known trigger, efforts should be made to redirect or avoid these stressors. Some may do well with biofeedback training, mediation, or yoga; others will find their own way of coping with these stressors.

General considerations to keep your hair healthy and minimize the appearance of hair loss include a nutritionally balanced diet; and gentle handling of your hair. Whenever possible, allow your hair to air-dry naturally; avoid tight hairstyles, such as braids, buns, or ponytails; and avoid compulsively twisting, rubbing, or pulling your hair.

How can we help you?

SKIN

# of surveys: 4187
Last updated: 1/02/2024 11:10 AM

PATIENT RATINGS

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definitely
93.1%
probably
6.16%
maybe
0.58%
not likely
0.08%
no
0.02%

Compare our service to other similar practices

excellent
87.9%
very good
10.1%
good
1.8%
poor
0.06%
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Overall doctor performance

excellent
94.2%
very good
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poor
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The doctor listened to you attentively

excellent
93.9%
very good
4.97%
good
1.05%
poor
0.05%
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The doctor took time to answer your questions

excellent
94.0%
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4.66%
good
1.27%
poor
0.02%
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The doctor explained treatment options

excellent
94.3%
very good
4.16%
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poor
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very poor
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The doctor explained treatment options

excellent
92.0%
very good
5.69%
good
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poor
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Front desk performance

excellent
85.6%
very good
10.2%
good
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poor
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very poor
0.08%

Aesthetician performance

excellent
88.6%
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Office comfort

excellent
90.9%
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Parking

excellent
66.4%
very good
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good
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Friendliness of the staff during appointment

excellent
90.9%
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7.23%
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What WE DID WELL

(Answers:674)

THE STAFF AND THE PAINTINGS - lINDA WAS A GOOD LISTENER AND EXPLAINED EVERYTHINF IN DETAIL - SHE DID MOT RUSH ME - I LIKE THAT - ERIN WAS PLEASANT AND VERY PROFESSIONAL . I WAS A GOOD VISIT- THNKA YOU

#12011-04-01 14:05:41

Professionalism

#22024-02-14

I was pleased that the Dr acknowleged my children and was patient with them during the visit.

#32024-09-16

Andrea was very responsive to my original request to be seen, and you provided a very quick appointment even though I was not a patient. As an architect, I especially appreciate the attention to detail in how you have retrofitted the office.

#42024-01-31

Friendliness of office staff and professionalism of doctor.

#52011-01-17 16:36:22

Attention by all staff.

#62024-06-06

I really appreciated the friendliness and attentiveness of the doctor, medical assistants and office staff.

#72024-08-27

I did not have to wait to be seen at all. From the start of my visit until I walked out the door the doctor & staff were very professional & took the tim to answer my questions and listen to me also. I have been seen by other dermatologist and I was defibately impressed here.+++A+++ Higly recommended.

#82024-11-25

Office was very nice, comfortable atmosphere.

#92024-06-21

The amount of time the doctor spent and the medical assistant. I didn't feel rushed

#102024-06-27

What can we do better?

(answers:373)

Can't think of a thing. I was very impressed.

#12010-09-27 14:45:03

give me choices of what type of medicines that i can take

#22024-09-22

Everything was very clean and I cannot think of much you could do better.

#32024-11-18

do not change a thing

#42024-10-16

you are the best!

#52011-08-10 10:32:44

Everthing was excellent

#62010-10-27 13:58:55

Everything was perfect today

#72010-10-05 10:42:21

Everything was delightfully pleasant and comforting.

#82011-03-28 09:42:42

I have zero complaints--top notch service from booking of appointment to treatment to checkout.

#92011-07-26 14:19:25

This visit was great.

#102024-01-23

Customer Rating : 4.7

Based on 637 ratings
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