An Updated in the Management of Alopecia Areata

Abstract

Alopecia areata (AA) is the most frequent type of non-scarring alopecia after androgenetic alopecia. The lifetime risk of developing AA is approximately 1.7–2.1%, and its incidence is increasing over time. Clinically, it is characterized by circumscribed and smooth patches of alopecia with black dots. Several treatments have been used in AA including topical an oral minoxidil and corticosteroids. Although new treatment options are being developed and advances have been made in recent years, there is currently no preventive or curative treatment for AA and classical treatments produce variable results. The design of a treatment strategy for alopecia areata should be based on consensual decision-making with the patient, taking into account his or her preferences and the risk and benefit of each treatment. In this chapter, we review the treatment of AA.