A condition characterized by sudden, patchy hair loss in sharply defined areas of the scalp or beard that is generally reversible and self-limiting.

Alopecia areata may have an autoimmune origin. Factors that may predispose a person to the condition may include: drug therapies and drug reactions; bacterial and fungal infections; psoriasis; seborrheic dermatitis; and endocrine disorders, such as thyroid, parathyroid, or pituitary dysfunctions.

The sudden loss of hair in alopecia areata develops in persons who have no obvious skin disorder or systemic disease. Regrowth may occur, and appear initially as fine, white hair that is eventually replaced by normal hair. Loose hairs with dark, rough, brush-like tips on narrow shafts that look like "exclamation points" occur around the edges of new patches of hair growth. Although the scalp and beard are most commonly involved, any area that has hair may be involved. In rare cases, the entire body may be affected and alopecia universalis may occur.

Physical examination, along with a thorough history, are usually sufficient to confirm the diagnosis. Diagnosis may also include measures to identify any underlying disorder. The physician may confirm alopecia with a pluck or pull test. In this test, a group of 8 to 10 hairs are pulled firmly, and if more than 4 hairs come out, the person most likely has alopecia. If the pluck or pull test is positive, a microscopic analysis may be done to identify structural abnormalities or signs of infection. Wood's lamp examination may be used to identify fungal infection. If fungal infection is present, the infected area glows, producing a positive test. In this case, the scalp may then be scraped lightly, and the scrapings examined under a microscope.

Treatment for alopecia areata may be unnecessary because spontaneous regrowth may occur. Topical, intralesional, and systemic steroids are possible treatments that may produce regrowth in 4 to 6 weeks.

If alopecia areata is extensive or begins early in life, the prognosis is poor. Hair loss that lasts for more than 1 year has a poor prognosis for regrowth. However, when confined to a few areas, the condition may reverse in a few months, even with no treatment. Recurrences of alopecia areata are common. Although it may not have any physiologic complications, it can impair a person's self-image.

None.

While service connection is not warranted for alopecia of androgenetic origin, VA recognizes hair loss due to scarring alopecia and alopecia areata under 38 CFR 4.118, DCs 7830 and 7831, as disabilities for which service connection is warranted if first manifest in service.