Alopecia areata
Also called: AA and patchy hair loss
Sudden hair loss that starts with one or more circular bald patches that may overlap.
- Treatment can help, but this condition can't be cured
- Requires a medical diagnosis
- Lab tests or imaging not required
- Medium-term: resolves within months
Alopecia areata occurs when the immune system attacks hair follicles, and may be brought on by severe stress.
Common: More than 200,000 US cases per year
Consult a doctor for medical advice
Sources: Mayo Clinic and others. Learn more
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Alopecia areata causes hair loss, mostly in small, round patches. Learn more about the causes & how to cope with hair loss.
Aug 30, 2023 · Alopecia areata is an autoimmune disease that occurs when your immune system mistakenly attacks hair follicles.
Apr 26, 2022 · Alopecia areata is an autoimmune disorder that causes your hair to come out, often in clumps the size and shape of a quarter.