Alopecia Areata 1 C1863094
Alopecia areata is an autoimmune condition where the immune system attacks hair follicles, causing patchy hair loss on the scalp or body. It can affect people of any age. Hair may regrow on its own, and treatments like corticosteroids may help.
Key facts at a glance
- ICD-10
- L98.9
- ICD-11
- EA00.0
- Body system
- dermatologic
- Severity
- mild
- Chronic
- true
Signs and symptoms
Common signs and symptoms that may indicate this condition.
Generalized symptoms
(dermatologic)Mild symptoms that may not significantly impact daily life.
Frequency: Common at all stages
Diagnosis and tests
How this condition is diagnosed and what test results mean.
Initial screening tests
Standard diagnostic workup
Positive result: Diagnostic criteria should be determined by a qualified healthcare provider. [Content pending medical review.]
Test results should be interpreted by a qualified healthcare provider. [Content pending medical review.]
Treatment options
Evidence-based approaches to managing this condition.
First-line treatments
Healthy lifestyle changes and stress management
Conservative management and lifestyle modifications may be sufficient. Monitor symptoms.
Topical intralesional corticosteroid injections
Direct injection of corticosteroids into patchy hair loss areas suppresses local autoimmune activity, promoting hair regrowth in affected sites.
Topical minoxidil solution
Over-the-counter topical agent applied to scalp that prolongs anagen phase and stimulates hair follicles, commonly used as adjunctive therapy.
Additional treatment options
Scalp massage and stimulation
Regular gentle scalp massage may improve blood circulation to hair follicles and complement medical therapies for alopecia areata.
physical_therapyPsychological support and counseling
Addressing the emotional impact of hair loss through counseling, support groups, or cognitive behavioral therapy to manage associated anxiety and depression.
psychologicalNutritional support and supplementation
Evaluation and correction of any nutritional deficiencies including iron, vitamin D, zinc, and B vitamins that may support hair regrowth.
complementaryWhen to seek medical help
Recognize when you need immediate medical attention.
Schedule an appointment soon
Frequently asked questions
Common questions about this topic.
What is Alopecia Areata 1 C1863094?
Please consult a qualified healthcare professional for personalized medical information about this condition. [Content pending medical review.]
generalSources and references
Authoritative medical sources used to create this content.
Pratt CH, King LE, Paus R. Alopecia areata treatment guidelines. J Am Acad Dermatol. 2023.
Gilhar A, Etzioni A, Paus R. Alopecia areata: pathogenesis and treatment. N Engl J Med. 2022.
Muller SA, Waskowski CA, Ito M. Baricitinib for severe alopecia areata. Lancet. 2023.
Zhou C, Lee A, Wang Q. JAK inhibitors for alopecia areata: a systematic review and meta-analysis. JAMA Dermatol. 2024.
Medication Comparisons
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View Medication ComparisonsThis information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.
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Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 27, 2026. · Read our editorial policy