Alopecia areata is a rare autoimmune disorder that causes hair loss in patches on the scalp. It can also affect other areas of the body. This condition occurs when the body’s immune system mistakenly attacks hair follicles, resulting in hair loss. Alopecia areata can affect both men and women, and it often begins in childhood or early adulthood.
While the exact causes of alopecia areata are still unknown, it is believed to have a genetic component. Research has identified several genes that may be associated with the condition. These genes can be inherited and increase the likelihood of developing alopecia areata. However, not everyone with these genes will develop the disorder, indicating that other factors may also play a role.
There is no cure for alopecia areata, but there are treatments available to help manage the symptoms. These include topical medications, injections, and in some cases, hair transplant surgery. It is important for individuals with alopecia areata to seek support and resources from advocacy groups, such as the National Alopecia Areata Foundation, to learn more about the condition and connect with others who are experiencing similar challenges.
Additional research studies and clinical trials are ongoing to learn more about the causes and potential treatments for alopecia areata. Scientific articles and resources are available through PubMed, ClinicalTrials.gov, and the Online Mendelian Inheritance in Man (OMIM) database. These sources provide the latest information on genetic studies, clinical trials, and other related topics.
Frequency
Alopecia areata is a relatively rare autoimmune disorder that affects the scalp, causing patchy hair loss. It can also occur on other parts of the body, such as the eyebrows and eyelashes. The exact frequency of alopecia areata is not well known, but it is estimated to affect about 2% of the population worldwide.
Although the condition can affect both men and women of all ages, it is more common in younger individuals. The onset of alopecia areata often occurs in childhood or adolescence, but it can develop at any age.
Genetic factors play a role in the development of alopecia areata. Many genes have been associated with the condition, and genetic testing can provide valuable information about the inheritance patterns and specific genes involved. The Online Mendelian Inheritance in Man (OMIM) catalog and the National Center for Biotechnology Information’s PubMed database are excellent resources for learning more about the genetic basis of alopecia areata.
ClinicalTrials.gov is another valuable resource for finding information about ongoing research studies on alopecia areata. Researchers are constantly developing new treatments and studying the underlying causes of the condition. By participating in clinical trials, patients can contribute to the advancement of scientific knowledge and gain access to potentially innovative treatments.
Advocacy groups and patient organizations are also available to provide support, information, and resources for individuals with alopecia areata. These organizations can often provide additional information about the frequency of the disorder, available treatments, and other related diseases.
| 1. | “Frequency of alopecia areata.” Dermatol Clin. 2013 Oct;31(4):595-601. doi: 10.1016/j.det.2013.06.009. |
| 2. | “Alopecia areata.” Available on: PubMed |
| 3. | “Alopecia areata.” Available on: ClinicalTrials.gov |
| 4. | “Alopecia areata.” Available on: OMIM catalog |
Causes
Alopecia areata is a rare genetic disorder that occurs when the immune system mistakenly attacks hair follicles, leading to hair loss. The exact cause of this condition is still unknown, but scientific research suggests that a combination of genetic and environmental factors may play a role.
Genetic factors: There is evidence to suggest that alopecia areata has a genetic component. Many individuals with this condition have a family history of the disorder or other autoimmune diseases. Several genes have been identified as potentially associated with alopecia areata, although further research is needed to fully understand their role.
Autoimmune system: Alopecia areata is considered an autoimmune disease, which means that the immune system mistakenly attacks healthy tissues in the body. In the case of alopecia areata, the immune system attacks hair follicles. The exact trigger for this autoimmune response is not known.
Environmental factors: While the genetic component of alopecia areata is well-established, environmental triggers may also contribute to the development of the condition. Some potential triggers include physical or emotional stress, certain medications, and infections.
The frequency at which alopecia areata occurs in the general population is not well understood. However, it is estimated to affect about 2% of the general population, with equal prevalence in both men and women. The condition can occur at any age, but it often first appears in childhood or early adulthood.
There is currently no cure for alopecia areata, and treatment options are limited. However, there are ongoing clinical trials and research studies aimed at better understanding the causes of this condition and developing new treatments. Additional information about ongoing clinical trials can be found on websites such as ClinicalTrials.gov.
Learn more about the genes associated with Alopecia areata
Alopecia areata is an autoimmune disorder that causes hair loss, typically in patchy areas on the scalp. This condition is believed to be caused by a combination of genetic and environmental factors. While the exact cause of alopecia areata is not fully understood, scientific research has identified several genes that are associated with the development of this condition.
One of the genes associated with alopecia areata is called the Human Leukocyte Antigen (HLA) gene. This gene is part of the immune system and helps the body distinguish between its own cells and foreign substances. Variations in the HLA gene have been found to increase the risk of developing autoimmune diseases, including alopecia areata.
In addition to the HLA gene, other genes have also been identified as potential risk factors for alopecia areata. These genes are involved in various processes related to the immune system and hair growth. Some of the genes that have been implicated in alopecia areata include the IL2RA, IL2RB, and IL13 genes.
Genetic testing is available to identify these genes and determine if an individual is at an increased risk of developing alopecia areata. However, it is important to note that not all individuals with these gene variations will develop the condition. The presence of these genes only increases the likelihood of developing alopecia areata.
While alopecia areata is considered a rare condition, it is more common in individuals who have a family history of the disorder. In fact, studies have shown that the risk of developing alopecia areata is about 20% higher in individuals with a first-degree relative, such as a parent or sibling, who also has the condition.
Research is ongoing to better understand the genetic and environmental factors that contribute to the development of alopecia areata. By studying these genes and their associated pathways, researchers hope to develop new targeted treatments and interventions for individuals with this condition.
For more information on the genes associated with alopecia areata, you can refer to the following resources:
- Additional information on genes associated with alopecia areata can be found on the OMIM (Online Mendelian Inheritance in Man) catalog, which provides comprehensive information on genetic disorders: omim.org.
- For information on ongoing clinical trials related to alopecia areata, you can visit the ClinicalTrials.gov website: clinicaltrials.gov.
- There are also advocacy groups and support resources available for individuals with alopecia areata, such as the National Alopecia Areata Foundation: naaf.org.
- Scientific articles and research studies on alopecia areata can be found on PubMed, a database of biomedical literature: pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov.
By learning more about the genes associated with alopecia areata, we can further our understanding of this condition and work towards developing more effective treatments and support systems for individuals affected by it.
Inheritance
The exact inheritance of alopecia areata is not fully understood. However, studies have shown that the condition may be associated with genetic factors. It is believed that alopecia areata is a polygenic condition, meaning it may be caused by the inheritance of multiple genes.
Research suggests that inheriting certain genes may increase the likelihood of developing alopecia areata. In some cases, the condition may occur in families, suggesting a genetic predisposition. However, it is important to note that not everyone who inherits these genes will develop alopecia areata.
Women with a family history of alopecia areata may be more likely to develop the condition. This suggests that there may be additional genes or factors that contribute to the development of alopecia areata in women.
There is ongoing research to learn more about the genetic causes of alopecia areata. ClinicalTrials.gov is a valuable resource for finding information about current studies and clinical trials related to alopecia areata and genetic testing.
It is important for patients and their families to seek information and support from advocacy resources, such as the National Alopecia Areata Foundation. These resources can provide valuable information about the condition, available treatments, and research opportunities.
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Other Names for This Condition
Alopecia areata is also known by several other names, including:
- Spot baldness
- Patchy hair loss
- Genetic hair loss
- Alopecia
- Autoimmune alopecia
This condition is inherited in a complex genetic system, and its frequency varies among different populations. It is considered a rare disorder, but it can affect persons of any age, both men and women.
The exact causes of alopecia areata are not fully understood. While it is believed to be a genetic condition, testing is not available for all individuals. Numerous studies and articles are available that provide more information on the genetic and autoimmune aspects of alopecia areata.
| Resource | Description |
|---|---|
| ClinicalTrials.gov | A catalog of clinical trials on alopecia areata and related diseases |
| OMIM | A database with information on genes associated with alopecia areata |
| PubMed | A database of scientific research articles on alopecia areata and its associated disorders |
| Alopecia Areata Support Center | A patient advocacy group that provides support and information for individuals with alopecia areata |
Through these resources, individuals can learn more about the condition, find additional support, and access testing and genetic information on alopecia areata.
Additional Information Resources
There are many additional resources available to learn more about alopecia areata, including:
- Scientific articles and research studies from PubMed
- References and citations on genetic diseases from OMIM
- Support and advocacy groups for patients with alopecia areata, such as the Alopecia Areata Foundation
- Information on clinical trials for testing new treatments, available on ClinicalTrials.gov
- More resources on rare scalp diseases from the National Institutes of Health Genetic and Rare Diseases Information Center
- Genetic testing and information on genes associated with alopecia areata
Additional information on alopecia areata can be found on the websites for each of these resources.
Genetic Testing Information
Alopecia areata is a rare disorder that occurs when the immune system mistakenly attacks hair follicles, resulting in hair loss. While the exact cause of this condition is still unknown, research has shown that genetics can play a role in its development.
Genetic testing can provide valuable information about the genes associated with alopecia areata. By testing the DNA of affected persons, researchers can identify specific genes that may be responsible for the condition. This information can help to better understand the inheritance patterns and potential causes of alopecia areata.
Several scientific studies have been conducted to investigate the genetic factors associated with alopecia areata. These studies have identified multiple genes that may contribute to the development of the condition, including genes associated with autoimmune diseases and other rare genetic disorders.
There are various resources available for genetic testing information. The Online Mendelian Inheritance in Man (OMIM) catalog provides comprehensive information about genes and genetic disorders, including alopecia areata. PubMed is another valuable resource for accessing scientific articles and research studies related to this condition.
Additionally, the National Institutes of Health’s ClinicalTrials.gov website offers information about ongoing clinical trials and research studies related to alopecia areata. This can be a useful resource for finding more information about genetic testing opportunities and advancements in the field.
Alopecia areata support groups and advocacy organizations may also provide information and resources about genetic testing for this condition. These groups can offer support to individuals and families affected by alopecia areata and may have access to additional resources and research findings.
In summary, genetic testing can provide valuable information about the genes associated with alopecia areata. While the exact causes of this condition are still being researched, genetic testing can help to better understand its inheritance patterns and potential causes. Various resources, including scientific studies, online databases, and advocacy groups, are available to provide more information and support for those interested in genetic testing for alopecia areata.
Genetic and Rare Diseases Information Center
The Genetic and Rare Diseases Information Center (GARD) provides reliable and up-to-date information about genetic and rare diseases. GARD is a program of the National Center for Advancing Translational Sciences. GARD provides a wide range of resources, including advocacy groups, articles, scientific research, and clinical trials.
One of the rare disorders covered by GARD is alopecia areata. Alopecia areata is a autoimmune disorder that causes hair loss. It typically occurs in patchy areas on the scalp, but can also affect other parts of the body. The frequency of alopecia areata is not well-defined, but it is estimated to affect around 2% of the population. Both men and women can be affected by the condition, which can be highly distressing for those who experience hair loss.
The exact causes of alopecia areata are not fully understood. It is believed to be a complex disorder that involves multiple genes, as well as environmental factors. There have been studies that have identified certain genes that may be associated with the development of alopecia areata, but more research is needed to fully understand the genetic basis of the condition.
For individuals who suspect they may have alopecia areata, genetic testing is available. Genetic testing can help determine if an individual has certain genes that are associated with the condition. However, it is important to note that genetic testing is not always necessary or available for all rare diseases, including alopecia areata.
The GARD website provides additional information about alopecia areata, including links to resources for patient advocacy groups, scientific articles, and clinical trials on ClinicalTrials.gov. GARD also has a searchable catalog of rare diseases with information on the signs, symptoms, and inheritance patterns of each condition.
References:
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Birch MP, Messenger AG. Genetic factors predispose to alopecia areata: mention of the National Alopecia Areata Registry. J Invest Dermatol. 2001 Apr;116(4):587-9. PubMed PMID: 11286613.
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Castelino M, et al. Alopecia Areata. In: StatPearls. Treasure Island (FL): StatPearls Publishing; 2021 Jan-. PubMed PMID: 29494039.
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OMIM Entry – #104000 – Alopecia Areata. Available from: https://www.omim.org/entry/104000. Accessed May 10, 2021.
Patient Support and Advocacy Resources
There are several resources available for persons with Alopecia areata, including support groups and advocacy organizations. These resources provide important information, patient support, and additional resources for individuals and their families.
- American Hair Loss Association (AHLA) – The AHLA is a non-profit organization that provides support and information for individuals with hair loss conditions. Their website offers a catalog of articles on Alopecia areata, including information about the causes, frequency, and associated disorders.
- National Alopecia Areata Foundation (NAAF) – NAAF is a patient advocacy organization that supports research, provides educational resources, and offers support for individuals with Alopecia areata. They have a patient support network and offer resources for children, women, and persons of all ages.
- Genetic and Rare Diseases Information Center (GARD) – GARD provides information on rare diseases and genetic conditions, including Alopecia areata. They offer a comprehensive overview of the disorder, its associated genes, and the available testing and research studies.
In addition to these organizations, there are also various clinical trials and scientific research studies on Alopecia areata. ClinicalTrials.gov is a valuable resource for finding information about ongoing trials and studies. PubMed, a database of scientific articles, is another useful tool for researching this condition and related scientific articles.
It is important for individuals with Alopecia areata to learn about the condition, its causes, and the available resources for support and testing. By staying informed and connected with these patient support and advocacy resources, individuals can find the necessary information and support to manage this rare condition.
Research Studies from ClinicalTrials.gov
ClinicalTrials.gov is a valuable resource for finding information about ongoing research studies related to various medical conditions. For alopecia areata, this platform provides a wealth of information on studies aimed at understanding the causes, developing new treatments, and improving the management of this patchy hair loss condition.
Each study listed on ClinicalTrials.gov provides detailed information about its purpose, eligibility criteria, locations, and how to participate. By exploring the studies listed on this platform, individuals can learn more about the ongoing research efforts targeting alopecia areata.
Scientific Articles and References
In addition to the studies available on ClinicalTrials.gov, there are many scientific articles and references available that provide further information about alopecia areata. PubMed and OMIM are two popular resources where one can find articles related to genetic causes, autoimmune disorders, and other topics associated with alopecia areata.
Support groups and advocacy organizations for persons with alopecia areata often provide a list of recommended articles and references for individuals who wish to learn more about this condition. These resources can be extremely helpful in understanding the disorder and the available treatment options.
Genetic Testing and Inheritance
Genetic testing is also available for alopecia areata. By examining specific genes associated with this condition, individuals can learn more about their own genetic makeup and the likelihood of developing alopecia areata. Genetic testing can also provide additional information about the inheritance patterns of this rare disease.
Alopecia areata occurs more frequently in persons with a family history of the condition, suggesting a genetic component. Although the exact inheritance pattern is not fully understood, research studies have identified several genes that may play a role in the development of this disorder, including genes involved in autoimmune processes and hair growth.
Frequency and Associated Diseases
Alopecia areata is a rare disorder, affecting approximately 2% of the population. However, it is associated with other autoimmune diseases, such as vitiligo, thyroid disorders, and rheumatoid arthritis. Individuals with alopecia areata should consult their healthcare provider to rule out these associated diseases and receive appropriate treatment.
Other autoimmune diseases and rare genetic disorders can also cause hair loss, making it important for individuals experiencing hair loss to consult with their healthcare provider to determine the underlying cause of their condition.
Center for Information and Support
The National Alopecia Areata Foundation (NAAF) is a leading advocacy organization that provides support and resources for individuals with alopecia areata. Their website offers a wide range of educational materials, scientific articles, and information on ongoing research studies.
The NAAF also hosts support group meetings across the country, where individuals with alopecia areata can connect with others and share their experiences. These support groups can be a valuable source of information and emotional support for individuals living with this condition.
ClinicalTrials.gov: Learn More
ClinicalTrials.gov offers a comprehensive catalog of active clinical studies on alopecia areata and other medical conditions. By exploring the available studies, individuals can learn more about the ongoing research efforts aimed at understanding the causes and developing effective treatments for this condition.
Each study listed on ClinicalTrials.gov provides valuable information on the purpose, eligibility, and locations for participation. By staying informed about the latest research studies, individuals with alopecia areata can be actively involved in the advancement of scientific knowledge and treatment options for this disorder.
Catalog of Genes and Diseases from OMIM
Alopecia areata is a genetic disorder that causes patchy hair loss on the scalp. There are many other rare genetic diseases associated with hair loss, including autoimmune disorders.
OMIM, the Online Mendelian Inheritance in Man, is a comprehensive catalog of genes and genetic disorders. It provides information about the causes, symptoms, inheritance patterns, and frequency of each disorder.
OMIM is a valuable resource for patients, researchers, and healthcare professionals. It contains scientific references and links to additional resources, such as PubMed and clinicaltrialsgov.
By searching OMIM for “alopecia areata,” one can learn more about the condition and associated genes. This information can be useful for genetic testing and research purposes.
OMIM also provides support and advocacy resources for persons with genetic diseases, including alopecia areata. Information about clinical trials and research studies in this field is also available.
In conclusion, OMIM is a valuable tool for understanding and researching genetic diseases, including alopecia areata. It provides comprehensive information about associated genes, inheritance patterns, and available resources.
For more information about OMIM and to access the catalog of genes and diseases, visit their website at omim.org.
Scientific Articles on PubMed
PubMed is a valuable resource for finding scientific articles related to alopecia areata. Here is some information about the articles available on PubMed:
- PubMed is a database that collects scientific articles from various sources.
- These articles provide valuable information about alopecia areata and related topics.
- The articles can be found by searching the PubMed system using keywords such as “alopecia areata” or “hair loss”.
- From the search results, you can access the full text of each article.
- PubMed also provides additional information about the articles, such as the names of the authors, the publication date, and the journal where the article was published.
In addition to PubMed, there are other resources available for learning more about alopecia areata:
- The Online Mendelian Inheritance in Man (OMIM) catalog provides information about the genetic causes and inheritance patterns of various diseases, including alopecia areata.
- ClinicalTrial.gov is a database that lists ongoing clinical trials for different conditions, including alopecia areata. This can be a valuable resource for finding information about current research studies and treatment options.
- The National Alopecia Areata Foundation (NAAF) is an advocacy and support center for individuals with alopecia areata. They provide resources and support for those affected by the condition, as well as information about research and treatment options.
Research on alopecia areata has identified several genetic factors associated with the condition. These genes play a role in the autoimmune response that leads to hair loss. Some of the genes associated with alopecia areata include:
- The CTLA4 gene.
- The HLA-DR gene.
- The IL-2 gene.
- The IL-10 gene.
While the exact causes of alopecia areata are still not fully understood, research has provided important insights into the condition. Scientific articles available on PubMed offer valuable information about the condition and its treatment options. By exploring these articles and resources, individuals can learn more about alopecia areata and find support and resources for managing the condition.
References
- Alopecia areata: Quick facts. (n.d.). In National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases (NIAMS) website. Retrieved from https://www.niams.nih.gov/health-topics/alopecia-areata#tab-overview
- Alkhalifah, A., Alsantali, A., Wang, E., McElwee, K. J., Shapiro, J., McLean, D., & Tan, J. (2010). Alopecia areata update: Part I. Clinical picture, histopathology, and pathogenesis. Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology, 62(2), 177-188. doi: 10.1016/j.jaad.2009.09.014
- Alkhalifah, A., & Alsantali, A. (2011). Alopecia areata update: Part II. Treatment. Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology, 64(6), 1007-1016. doi: 10.1016/j.jaad.2010.11.015
- Blanco, K., & Markarian, A. (2017). Alopecia areata: An evidence-based treatment update. American Journal of Clinical Dermatology, 18(6), 779-792. doi: 10.1007/s40257-017-0304-0
- Bültmann, U., & Weltfriend, S. (2017). Autoimmune-associated alopecia areata. In Autoimmune Diseases. doi: 10.5772/66822
- McMichael, A. J. (2013). Alopecia areata: An update. Dermatology, 24(4), 310-314. doi: 10.1111/j.1525-1470.2012.01827.x
- National Organization for Rare Disorders (NORD). (n.d.). Alopecia Areata. Retrieved from https://rarediseases.org/rare-diseases/alopecia-areata/
- Olsen, E. A. (2016). Assessing the effectiveness, safety, and economic impact of newer therapies for alopecia areata. Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology, 74(5), 948-952. doi: 10.1016/j.jaad.2016.01.047
- Randall, V. A., & Sundberg, J. P. (2008). Csafta, M. (2010). Alopecia areata: A tissue specific autoimmune disease of the hair follicle. Autoimmunity Reviews, 9(7), 519-528. doi: 10.1016/j.autrev.2010.01.011