REPORTS ON SCIENTIFIC MEETINGS Update on Alopecia Areata

Alopecia areata (AA) is an autoimmune disease resulting in reversible dysfunction of the hair growth cycle. There is no obvious destruction of hair follicles in AA, and the potential for full hair regrowth always remains. AA affects about 2% of the population in the United States. All ages are affected although it occurs more frequently in children and young adults. Males and females are equally affected and it occurs in all races, worldwide. It can affect any hair bearing area in the body and can cause stippling and dystrophy of nails. Patients with AA have a higher incidence of atopy, thyroid disease, and vitiligo. They are otherwise generally healthy. Family members have a higher incidence of atopy, thyroid disease, vitiligo, insulindependent diabetes, lupus erythematosus, rheumatoid arthritis and other autoimmune diseases. If a first degree relative has AA, the chance of developing the condition is approximately 20%. Laboratory tests are not usually needed in patients with AA with the exception of a thyrotrophin level in young children or in patients with a strong family history of thyroid disease.