Occur when the immune system mistakenly attacks the body’s own cells, leading to various health challenges. Awareness of these conditions is crucial for early intervention and effective management. Here, we outline some of the key autoimmune diseases, particularly those related to hair loss and systemic health issues.
Alopecia Areata
Alopecia areata is an autoimmune disease characterized by the immune system attacking hair follicles, leading to hair loss. This condition can affect hair on any part of the body, but it most commonly impacts the scalp and face.
10 Types of Alopecia:
1. Alopecia Areata: Patchy hair loss that can occur suddenly.
2. Androgenetic Alopecia (Pattern Hair Loss): Genetic hair loss affecting both men and women, often seen as thinning hair or baldness.
3. Central Centrifugal Cicatricial Alopecia (Scarring Alopecia): A condition where hair follicles are damaged and scarred, leading to permanent hair loss.
4. Chemotherapy Induced Alopecia (Anagen Effluvium): Hair loss resulting from cancer treatments, including chemotherapy.
5. Frontal Fibrosing Alopecia (Scarring Alopecia): A condition that causes progressive hair loss at the front of the scalp.
6. Lichen Planopilaris (Scarring Alopecia): An inflammatory condition affecting hair follicles, leading to scarring and hair loss.
7. Telogen Effluvium: A temporary condition that leads to hair shedding, often triggered by stress or illness.
8. Traction Alopecia: Hair loss caused by prolonged tension on the hair, commonly seen in individuals with tight hairstyles.
9. Trichotillomania (Hair Pulling): A psychological condition characterized by the compulsive pulling of hair.
10. Alopecia Universalis: A severe form of alopecia resulting in complete loss of hair on the scalp and body.