Alopecia universalis
Alopecia Universalis
Alopecia universalis (pronunciation: al-oh-PEE-shah yoo-nuh-ver-SAY-lis) is a condition characterized by the complete loss of hair on the scalp and body. The term "alopecia" comes from the Greek word "alopex," which means "fox," as foxes are known to shed their fur. "Universalis" is Latin for "universal," indicating the widespread nature of hair loss in this condition.
Causes
Alopecia universalis is an autoimmune disease, meaning it is caused by the immune system mistakenly attacking the body's own cells. In this case, the immune system targets the hair follicles, leading to hair loss. The exact cause of this immune response is not known, but it is believed to be influenced by genetic and environmental factors.
Symptoms
The primary symptom of alopecia universalis is the loss of all body and scalp hair. This includes eyebrows, eyelashes, and even the fine hairs that normally cover the body. Some people with alopecia universalis may also have abnormalities of the nails, such as pitting (small dents in the nail surface).
Treatment
There is currently no cure for alopecia universalis, but there are treatments that can help manage the condition. These include corticosteroids, which can suppress the immune response, and minoxidil, a medication that can stimulate hair growth. Some people may also choose to wear wigs or use cosmetic techniques to manage the appearance of hair loss.
Prognosis
The prognosis for alopecia universalis varies. Some people may experience regrowth of hair, while others may have permanent hair loss. The condition does not affect lifespan or physical health, but it can have significant psychological and emotional impacts.
See Also
References
- National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases
- American Academy of Dermatology
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Alopecia universalis
- Wikipedia's article - Alopecia universalis
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