Diagnosis of Alopecia Areata

Author(s):

Ryan Haumschild, PharmD, MS, MBA,Amy McMichael, MD

Key Takeaways

Alopecia areata is a chronic autoimmune disorder causing non-scarring hair loss due to immune system attacks on hair follicles.
Breakdown of immune privilege in hair follicles leads to infiltration by cytotoxic T cells, particularly CD8+ T cells.
Inflammatory cytokines like IFN-γ and TNF-α are key contributors to immune-mediated hair follicle destruction.
The chronicity of alopecia areata is linked to persistent immune dysregulation and genetic predisposition.

Panelists discuss how alopecia areata (AA) is included in the differential diagnosis for hair loss conditions and how a definitive diagnosis is made through clinical evaluation and, when necessary, additional diagnostic tests.

EP: 1.Discussing the Pathophysiology of Alopecia Areata

EP: 2.Epidemiology Associated With Alopecia Areata

EP: 3.Common Comorbidities Associated With Alopecia Areata

EP: 4.Hallmark Symptoms Seen With Alopecia Areata

EP: 5.Psychosocial Impact of Alopecia Areata

Now Viewing

EP: 6.Diagnosis of Alopecia Areata

Video content above is prompted by the following:

Mostaghimi: What is in your differential diagnose when considering AA?
- How do you definitively diagnose it?