Alopecia areata update

Abstract

Alopecia areata (AA) is a common nonscarring alopecia. It affects 1.7% of the population at some point in their lives. AA is an autoimmune condition characterized by dense peribulbar lymphocytic infiltrate. The exact cause and triggering factors are still unknown. The scalp is the most commonly affected area but any hair-bearing area can be involved. All available treatment options are neither curative nor preventive. This article will discuss updates in AA with focus on etiopathogenesis, clinical presentation, and treatment options and suggest treatment plans based on the age of the patient and extent of the disease.