Alopecia areata

Alternative names:

alopecia totalis; alopecia universalis

Treatment:

No fully effective treatments are available. Typical therapy includes:

• corticosteroids -- topical -- medium to very high potency
• subcutaneous injection of steroids

Expectations (prognosis):

Spontaneous remission with full recovery of hair is common; however, alopecia areata occurring at a young age or prolonged alopecia often predicts a poorer outcome.

Complications:

Permanent hair loss can occur.

Calling your health care provider:

Call for an appointment with your health care provider if you are concerned about hair loss.