Alopecia Areata Symptoms

Alopecia areata is a common disease that is characterized by hair loss in a sharply defined area on the body. Usually the area is round and there is a lack of other symptoms. The cause of alopecia areata is poorly understood and currently it is believed that an interaction between environmental and genetic factors is responsible.

Hair Loss

There is a wide variety of patterns of hair loss present in alopecia areata. Most commonly, patients report anywhere from one to several areas of round hair loss on the scalp. The skin where hair loss has occurred is usually smooth and/or white. Other parts of the body affected include the beard area and eyelashes.
Alopecia universalis is a rare variation of alopecia areata and represents the disease at its highest severity. It involves total loss of all body and scalp hair, which can be obviously very distressing for the patient. Like the less severe forms of the disease, it also tends to resolve spontaneously.

Nail Changes

Anywhere from 10 to 66 percent of patients afflicted with alopecia areata will notice nail changes according to the 5th Edition of Clinical Dermatology textbook. Common changes include nail pitting, striations and a typical "sandpaper" appearance.

Itching and Burning

Often patients suffering from alopecia areata will complain of itching and burning sensations. These are most prominent in the areas where hair loss has occurred.