Alopecia

Alopecia (baldness, baldness) -the absence or thinning of hair (more often on the head). Alopecia can be total (complete absence of hair), diffuse (sharp hair thinning) and focal (lack of hair in limited areas). By origin and clinical features distinguish several varieties of alopecia.

Congenital alopecia due to genetic defects is manifested by significant thinning or complete lack of hair, often in combination with other ectodermal dysplasias. The forecast is poor.

Symptomatic alopecia is a complication of severe common diseases (acute infections, diffuse connective tissue diseases, endocrinopathies, syphilis, etc.). It is focal, diffuse or total and is a consequence of toxic or autoimmune influences on the hair papillae. The prognosis depends on the outcome of the underlying disease.

Seborrheic alopecia - a complication of seborrhea, usually has a diffuse character. The prognosis depends on the success of seborrhea treatment.

Premature alopecia is observed on the head in men of young and middle age, has a diffuse-focal character with the formation of bald patches and bald patches. Hereditary predisposition is of primary importance. Hair is not restored.

Alopecia areata (circular alopecia) - acquired hair loss in the form of rounded foci of various sizes. The etiology is unknown. Pathogenesis: local neuro-trophic disorders, possibly with an autoimmune component. Symptoms: a sudden appearance on the scalp (more often the head, face) of several rounded foci of complete hair loss without any other changes. Foci can grow, merge and lead to total baldness. Perhaps spontaneous recovery, but not uncommon relapse. With the total form, hair is often not restored. Treatment: sedatives, vitamins, fitin, irritating alcohol rubbing, corticosteroid ointments. In severe cases, photosensitizers (ammifurin, Beroxane) in combination with ultraviolet radiation, corticosteroids inside, photochemotherapy.