Alopecia areata is an autoimmune disorder that causes hair loss. The immune system attacks the root portion of the hair, causing it to fall out. There is no known cause for this hair loss and there is no cure. The American Academy of Dermatology states that about 2 percent of the population in the United States will develop the condition at some point in life.
Loss of Scalp Hair
Alopecia areata causes round areas of baldness on the scalp. The areas of missing hair often begin as small, round and bare areas of the scalp. The bald areas feel smooth to the touch. The entire scalp may lose all hair. This condition is called alopecia totalis.
Loss of Body Hair
Medline Plus states that the condition can cause a loss of body hair, including the hair on the face such as eyebrows, beard and eyelashes. Alopecia might affect one or several of the areas on the body. A complete loss of all body hair is called alopecia universalis.
Itching
The bald areas of hair may cause slight discomfort or itching. The scalp can cause a burning feeling, as well. The discomfort normally precedes the appearance of a new bald patch, explains the American Academy of Dermatology.
Fingernails
The fingernails can also show symptoms related to alopecia, becoming dented or developing ridges.
Hair Regrowth
Oftentimes, the lost hair will grow back. The regrown hair may fall out again later. According to the National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases, the new hair growth can return with no color pigmentation. The hair is white at the beginning, but eventually returns to the original color. Regrowth varies among individuals.
Severity
SkinSight.com classifies the severity of the condition. If there are one to five patches of hair loss, the condition is considered mild. Moderate alopecia is defined by more than five affected areas on the scalp or the body. A severe case is characterized by a complete loss of all hair on the body and scalp.
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