SkinImages.ca

Skin Type: 4

  • Basal Cell Carcinoma

    Basal Cell Carcinoma

    Basal Cell Carcinoma (BCC)

    Definition: BCC is a slow-growing nonmelanocytic skin cancer arising from basal cells in the epidermis that rarely metastasizes but can invade locally and be destructive (1,4,5).

    Etiology:  Ultraviolet exposure is a major risk factor and explains why BCC typically grows on sun-exposed areas of the skin (1). Other factors that influence the development of BCC include fairer skin colour, light-coloured eyes, Northern European ancestry, red hair and a history of sunburns (5). Pathobiologicallt, most BCCs are caused by activation of the Hedgehog signaling system, which is also a target for therapeutic intervention (5).

    Epidemiology: The incidence of BCC varies depending on geographic location and race (5). Australia is reported to have one of the highest incidences of 1000/100,000 (5). BCC is one of the most common skin cancers in fair-skinned individuals and is increasing in incidence globally (1). It is usually seen after the age of 50 with an incidence ratio of 2:1 in females and males respectively (1).

    Signs: BCC manifests as a translucent or pearly nodule accompanied by telangiectasia on sun-exposed regions such as the neck, ears, and face (2).

    Symptoms: Typically asymptomatic but with time may crust, bleed or develop ulcers (2,3).

    Differentials: Squamous cell carcinoma, adnexal tumors, seborrheic keratosis(1).

    Diagnosis: Diagnosis requires a biopsy and is recommended before undergoing surgery or systemic treatment (1). Diagnosis also involves historical examination and direct inspection of the lesion (5). 

    Treatment: The standard treatment for BCC is typically surgery (surgical excision, Mohs micrographic surgery and curettage and electrodesiccation) but non-surgical treatments options are also available including: freezing or light therapy, topical medications and radiation treatments (1).

    References: (AMA)

    1.      Basset-Seguin N, Herms F. Update in the management of basal cell carcinoma. Acta Dermato Venereologica. 2020;100(11). doi:10.2340/00015555-3495 

    2.     1. McDaniel B. Basal cell carcinoma. StatPearls [Internet]. March 13, 2024. Accessed August 18, 2024. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK482439/#:~:text=BCC%20typically%20presents%20as%20a,rolled%20or%20rodent%20ulcer%20appearance.

    3.     Oakley A. Basal cell carcinoma: Symptoms, causes, and treatment – dermnet. DermNet®. July 3, 2024. Accessed August 18, 2024. https://dermnetnz.org/topics/basal-cell-carcinoma. 

    4.     Robert S Bader M. Basal cell carcinoma. Practice Essentials, Background, Pathophysiology. April 3, 2024. Accessed August 18, 2024. https://emedicine.medscape.com/article/276624-overview?gad_source=1&gbraid=0AAAAADoSQiUCwFng3uMBdxWlXHVuNMVrw&gclid=Cj0KCQjwt4a2BhD6ARIsALgH7Dqhf-P79uzm848PdW5k8auVX_QjoRGo38V0m2dFrNN42l3MpFCbyS0aAm4_EALw_wcB&form=fpf#a2.

    5.     Tanese K. Diagnosis and management of basal cell carcinoma. Current Treatment Options in Oncology. 2019;20(2). doi:10.1007/s11864-019-0610-0 

  • Basal Cell Carcinoma

    Basal Cell Carcinoma

    Basal Cell Carcinoma (BCC)

    Definition: BCC is a slow-growing nonmelanocytic skin cancer arising from basal cells in the epidermis that rarely metastasizes but can invade locally and be destructive (1,4,5).

    Etiology:  Ultraviolet exposure is a major risk factor and explains why BCC typically grows on sun-exposed areas of the skin (1). Other factors that influence the development of BCC include fairer skin colour, light-coloured eyes, Northern European ancestry, red hair and a history of sunburns (5). Pathobiologicallt, most BCCs are caused by activation of the Hedgehog signaling system, which is also a target for therapeutic intervention (5).

    Epidemiology: The incidence of BCC varies depending on geographic location and race (5). Australia is reported to have one of the highest incidences of 1000/100,000 (5). BCC is one of the most common skin cancers in fair-skinned individuals and is increasing in incidence globally (1). It is usually seen after the age of 50 with an incidence ratio of 2:1 in females and males respectively (1).

    Signs: BCC manifests as a translucent or pearly nodule accompanied by telangiectasia on sun-exposed regions such as the neck, ears, and face (2).

    Symptoms: Typically asymptomatic but with time may crust, bleed or develop ulcers (2,3).

    Differentials: Squamous cell carcinoma, adnexal tumors, seborrheic keratosis(1).

    Diagnosis: Diagnosis requires a biopsy and is recommended before undergoing surgery or systemic treatment (1). Diagnosis also involves historical examination and direct inspection of the lesion (5). 

    Treatment: The standard treatment for BCC is typically surgery (surgical excision, Mohs micrographic surgery and curettage and electrodesiccation) but non-surgical treatments options are also available including: freezing or light therapy, topical medications and radiation treatments (1).

    References: (AMA)

    1.      Basset-Seguin N, Herms F. Update in the management of basal cell carcinoma. Acta Dermato Venereologica. 2020;100(11). doi:10.2340/00015555-3495 

    2.     1. McDaniel B. Basal cell carcinoma. StatPearls [Internet]. March 13, 2024. Accessed August 18, 2024. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK482439/#:~:text=BCC%20typically%20presents%20as%20a,rolled%20or%20rodent%20ulcer%20appearance.

    3.     Oakley A. Basal cell carcinoma: Symptoms, causes, and treatment – dermnet. DermNet®. July 3, 2024. Accessed August 18, 2024. https://dermnetnz.org/topics/basal-cell-carcinoma. 

    4.     Robert S Bader M. Basal cell carcinoma. Practice Essentials, Background, Pathophysiology. April 3, 2024. Accessed August 18, 2024. https://emedicine.medscape.com/article/276624-overview?gad_source=1&gbraid=0AAAAADoSQiUCwFng3uMBdxWlXHVuNMVrw&gclid=Cj0KCQjwt4a2BhD6ARIsALgH7Dqhf-P79uzm848PdW5k8auVX_QjoRGo38V0m2dFrNN42l3MpFCbyS0aAm4_EALw_wcB&form=fpf#a2.

    5.     Tanese K. Diagnosis and management of basal cell carcinoma. Current Treatment Options in Oncology. 2019;20(2). doi:10.1007/s11864-019-0610-0 

  • Basal Cell Carcinoma

    Basal Cell Carcinoma

    Basal Cell Carcinoma (BCC)

    Definition: BCC is a slow-growing nonmelanocytic skin cancer arising from basal cells in the epidermis that rarely metastasizes but can invade locally and be destructive (1,4,5).

    Etiology:  Ultraviolet exposure is a major risk factor and explains why BCC typically grows on sun-exposed areas of the skin (1). Other factors that influence the development of BCC include fairer skin colour, light-coloured eyes, Northern European ancestry, red hair and a history of sunburns (5). Pathobiologicallt, most BCCs are caused by activation of the Hedgehog signaling system, which is also a target for therapeutic intervention (5).

    Epidemiology: The incidence of BCC varies depending on geographic location and race (5). Australia is reported to have one of the highest incidences of 1000/100,000 (5). BCC is one of the most common skin cancers in fair-skinned individuals and is increasing in incidence globally (1). It is usually seen after the age of 50 with an incidence ratio of 2:1 in females and males respectively (1).

    Signs: BCC manifests as a translucent or pearly nodule accompanied by telangiectasia on sun-exposed regions such as the neck, ears, and face (2).

    Symptoms: Typically asymptomatic but with time may crust, bleed or develop ulcers (2,3).

    Differentials: Squamous cell carcinoma, adnexal tumors, seborrheic keratosis(1).

    Diagnosis: Diagnosis requires a biopsy and is recommended before undergoing surgery or systemic treatment (1). Diagnosis also involves historical examination and direct inspection of the lesion (5). 

    Treatment: The standard treatment for BCC is typically surgery (surgical excision, Mohs micrographic surgery and curettage and electrodesiccation) but non-surgical treatments options are also available including: freezing or light therapy, topical medications and radiation treatments (1).

    References: (AMA)

    1.      Basset-Seguin N, Herms F. Update in the management of basal cell carcinoma. Acta Dermato Venereologica. 2020;100(11). doi:10.2340/00015555-3495 

    2.     1. McDaniel B. Basal cell carcinoma. StatPearls [Internet]. March 13, 2024. Accessed August 18, 2024. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK482439/#:~:text=BCC%20typically%20presents%20as%20a,rolled%20or%20rodent%20ulcer%20appearance.

    3.     Oakley A. Basal cell carcinoma: Symptoms, causes, and treatment – dermnet. DermNet®. July 3, 2024. Accessed August 18, 2024. https://dermnetnz.org/topics/basal-cell-carcinoma. 

    4.     Robert S Bader M. Basal cell carcinoma. Practice Essentials, Background, Pathophysiology. April 3, 2024. Accessed August 18, 2024. https://emedicine.medscape.com/article/276624-overview?gad_source=1&gbraid=0AAAAADoSQiUCwFng3uMBdxWlXHVuNMVrw&gclid=Cj0KCQjwt4a2BhD6ARIsALgH7Dqhf-P79uzm848PdW5k8auVX_QjoRGo38V0m2dFrNN42l3MpFCbyS0aAm4_EALw_wcB&form=fpf#a2.

    5.     Tanese K. Diagnosis and management of basal cell carcinoma. Current Treatment Options in Oncology. 2019;20(2). doi:10.1007/s11864-019-0610-0 

  • Basal Cell Carcinoma

    Basal Cell Carcinoma

    Basal Cell Carcinoma (BCC)

    Definition: BCC is a slow-growing nonmelanocytic skin cancer arising from basal cells in the epidermis that rarely metastasizes but can invade locally and be destructive (1,4,5).

    Etiology:  Ultraviolet exposure is a major risk factor and explains why BCC typically grows on sun-exposed areas of the skin (1). Other factors that influence the development of BCC include fairer skin colour, light-coloured eyes, Northern European ancestry, red hair and a history of sunburns (5). Pathobiologicallt, most BCCs are caused by activation of the Hedgehog signaling system, which is also a target for therapeutic intervention (5).

    Epidemiology: The incidence of BCC varies depending on geographic location and race (5). Australia is reported to have one of the highest incidences of 1000/100,000 (5). BCC is one of the most common skin cancers in fair-skinned individuals and is increasing in incidence globally (1). It is usually seen after the age of 50 with an incidence ratio of 2:1 in females and males respectively (1).

    Signs: BCC manifests as a translucent or pearly nodule accompanied by telangiectasia on sun-exposed regions such as the neck, ears, and face (2).

    Symptoms: Typically asymptomatic but with time may crust, bleed or develop ulcers (2,3).

    Differentials: Squamous cell carcinoma, adnexal tumors, seborrheic keratosis(1).

    Diagnosis: Diagnosis requires a biopsy and is recommended before undergoing surgery or systemic treatment (1). Diagnosis also involves historical examination and direct inspection of the lesion (5). 

    Treatment: The standard treatment for BCC is typically surgery (surgical excision, Mohs micrographic surgery and curettage and electrodesiccation) but non-surgical treatments options are also available including: freezing or light therapy, topical medications and radiation treatments (1).

    References: (AMA)

    1.      Basset-Seguin N, Herms F. Update in the management of basal cell carcinoma. Acta Dermato Venereologica. 2020;100(11). doi:10.2340/00015555-3495 

    2.     1. McDaniel B. Basal cell carcinoma. StatPearls [Internet]. March 13, 2024. Accessed August 18, 2024. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK482439/#:~:text=BCC%20typically%20presents%20as%20a,rolled%20or%20rodent%20ulcer%20appearance.

    3.     Oakley A. Basal cell carcinoma: Symptoms, causes, and treatment – dermnet. DermNet®. July 3, 2024. Accessed August 18, 2024. https://dermnetnz.org/topics/basal-cell-carcinoma. 

    4.     Robert S Bader M. Basal cell carcinoma. Practice Essentials, Background, Pathophysiology. April 3, 2024. Accessed August 18, 2024. https://emedicine.medscape.com/article/276624-overview?gad_source=1&gbraid=0AAAAADoSQiUCwFng3uMBdxWlXHVuNMVrw&gclid=Cj0KCQjwt4a2BhD6ARIsALgH7Dqhf-P79uzm848PdW5k8auVX_QjoRGo38V0m2dFrNN42l3MpFCbyS0aAm4_EALw_wcB&form=fpf#a2.

    5.     Tanese K. Diagnosis and management of basal cell carcinoma. Current Treatment Options in Oncology. 2019;20(2). doi:10.1007/s11864-019-0610-0 

  • Basal Cell Carcinoma

    Basal Cell Carcinoma

    Basal Cell Carcinoma (BCC)

    Definition: BCC is a slow-growing nonmelanocytic skin cancer arising from basal cells in the epidermis that rarely metastasizes but can invade locally and be destructive (1,4,5).

    Etiology:  Ultraviolet exposure is a major risk factor and explains why BCC typically grows on sun-exposed areas of the skin (1). Other factors that influence the development of BCC include fairer skin colour, light-coloured eyes, Northern European ancestry, red hair and a history of sunburns (5). Pathobiologicallt, most BCCs are caused by activation of the Hedgehog signaling system, which is also a target for therapeutic intervention (5).

    Epidemiology: The incidence of BCC varies depending on geographic location and race (5). Australia is reported to have one of the highest incidences of 1000/100,000 (5). BCC is one of the most common skin cancers in fair-skinned individuals and is increasing in incidence globally (1). It is usually seen after the age of 50 with an incidence ratio of 2:1 in females and males respectively (1).

    Signs: BCC manifests as a translucent or pearly nodule accompanied by telangiectasia on sun-exposed regions such as the neck, ears, and face (2).

    Symptoms: Typically asymptomatic but with time may crust, bleed or develop ulcers (2,3).

    Differentials: Squamous cell carcinoma, adnexal tumors, seborrheic keratosis(1).

    Diagnosis: Diagnosis requires a biopsy and is recommended before undergoing surgery or systemic treatment (1). Diagnosis also involves historical examination and direct inspection of the lesion (5). 

    Treatment: The standard treatment for BCC is typically surgery (surgical excision, Mohs micrographic surgery and curettage and electrodesiccation) but non-surgical treatments options are also available including: freezing or light therapy, topical medications and radiation treatments (1).

    References: (AMA)

    1.      Basset-Seguin N, Herms F. Update in the management of basal cell carcinoma. Acta Dermato Venereologica. 2020;100(11). doi:10.2340/00015555-3495 

    2.     1. McDaniel B. Basal cell carcinoma. StatPearls [Internet]. March 13, 2024. Accessed August 18, 2024. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK482439/#:~:text=BCC%20typically%20presents%20as%20a,rolled%20or%20rodent%20ulcer%20appearance.

    3.     Oakley A. Basal cell carcinoma: Symptoms, causes, and treatment – dermnet. DermNet®. July 3, 2024. Accessed August 18, 2024. https://dermnetnz.org/topics/basal-cell-carcinoma. 

    4.     Robert S Bader M. Basal cell carcinoma. Practice Essentials, Background, Pathophysiology. April 3, 2024. Accessed August 18, 2024. https://emedicine.medscape.com/article/276624-overview?gad_source=1&gbraid=0AAAAADoSQiUCwFng3uMBdxWlXHVuNMVrw&gclid=Cj0KCQjwt4a2BhD6ARIsALgH7Dqhf-P79uzm848PdW5k8auVX_QjoRGo38V0m2dFrNN42l3MpFCbyS0aAm4_EALw_wcB&form=fpf#a2.

    5.     Tanese K. Diagnosis and management of basal cell carcinoma. Current Treatment Options in Oncology. 2019;20(2). doi:10.1007/s11864-019-0610-0 

  • Basal Cell Carcinoma

    Basal Cell Carcinoma

    Basal Cell Carcinoma (BCC)

    Definition: BCC is a slow-growing nonmelanocytic skin cancer arising from basal cells in the epidermis that rarely metastasizes but can invade locally and be destructive (1,4,5).

    Etiology:  Ultraviolet exposure is a major risk factor and explains why BCC typically grows on sun-exposed areas of the skin (1). Other factors that influence the development of BCC include fairer skin colour, light-coloured eyes, Northern European ancestry, red hair and a history of sunburns (5). Pathobiologicallt, most BCCs are caused by activation of the Hedgehog signaling system, which is also a target for therapeutic intervention (5).

    Epidemiology: The incidence of BCC varies depending on geographic location and race (5). Australia is reported to have one of the highest incidences of 1000/100,000 (5). BCC is one of the most common skin cancers in fair-skinned individuals and is increasing in incidence globally (1). It is usually seen after the age of 50 with an incidence ratio of 2:1 in females and males respectively (1).

    Signs: BCC manifests as a translucent or pearly nodule accompanied by telangiectasia on sun-exposed regions such as the neck, ears, and face (2).

    Symptoms: Typically asymptomatic but with time may crust, bleed or develop ulcers (2,3).

    Differentials: Squamous cell carcinoma, adnexal tumors, seborrheic keratosis(1).

    Diagnosis: Diagnosis requires a biopsy and is recommended before undergoing surgery or systemic treatment (1). Diagnosis also involves historical examination and direct inspection of the lesion (5). 

    Treatment: The standard treatment for BCC is typically surgery (surgical excision, Mohs micrographic surgery and curettage and electrodesiccation) but non-surgical treatments options are also available including: freezing or light therapy, topical medications and radiation treatments (1).

    References: (AMA)

    1.      Basset-Seguin N, Herms F. Update in the management of basal cell carcinoma. Acta Dermato Venereologica. 2020;100(11). doi:10.2340/00015555-3495 

    2.     1. McDaniel B. Basal cell carcinoma. StatPearls [Internet]. March 13, 2024. Accessed August 18, 2024. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK482439/#:~:text=BCC%20typically%20presents%20as%20a,rolled%20or%20rodent%20ulcer%20appearance.

    3.     Oakley A. Basal cell carcinoma: Symptoms, causes, and treatment – dermnet. DermNet®. July 3, 2024. Accessed August 18, 2024. https://dermnetnz.org/topics/basal-cell-carcinoma. 

    4.     Robert S Bader M. Basal cell carcinoma. Practice Essentials, Background, Pathophysiology. April 3, 2024. Accessed August 18, 2024. https://emedicine.medscape.com/article/276624-overview?gad_source=1&gbraid=0AAAAADoSQiUCwFng3uMBdxWlXHVuNMVrw&gclid=Cj0KCQjwt4a2BhD6ARIsALgH7Dqhf-P79uzm848PdW5k8auVX_QjoRGo38V0m2dFrNN42l3MpFCbyS0aAm4_EALw_wcB&form=fpf#a2.

    5.     Tanese K. Diagnosis and management of basal cell carcinoma. Current Treatment Options in Oncology. 2019;20(2). doi:10.1007/s11864-019-0610-0 

  • Androgenetic Alopecia

    Androgenetic Alopecia

    Androgenetic Alopecia

    Definition: Androgenic Alopecia (AGA) is one of the most common types of hair loss and is characterized by the androgen-dependent reduction of terminal hairs into thin vellus hairs (1). 

    Etiology:  AGA is a hereditary disorder for which there is no known cure and is mainly influenced by androgens such as dihydrotestosterone (1). 

    Epidemiology: AGA affects both men and women with different balding patterns (1,3). The prevalence differs with men being more commonly affected (3).

    Signs: In women’s hair the frontal hairline is usually retained with diffuse thinning throughout the crown (2). In males, the thinning starts at the vertex and temples leading to receding in a characteristic “M” shape (2)

    Symptoms: Typically asymptomatic but can have psychological impacts due to the impact on the patient’s appearance. 

    Differentials: Alopecia Areata, Frontal Fibrosing Alopecia, Hereditary hypotrichosis complex, Telogen effluvium, Triangular Alopecia, Trichorhinophalangeal syndrome (1).

    Diagnosis: Advanced AGA is a clinical diagnosis, however in early AGA scalp dermoscopy, pull tests, hair and scalp examinations and biopsies may be used (3). Dermoscopy will show miniaturized hair follicles. (3)

    Treatment: There are only two drugs available, topical Minoxidil (men and women), a pyrimidine derivative and oral finasteride, a SRD5A2 inhibitor (for men only) (1,3).

    References: (AMA)

    1.     Khan Mohammad Beigi P. Alopecia areata. Published online 2018. doi:10.1007/978-3-319-72134-7

    2.     Androgenetic alopecia: Medlineplus genetics. MedlinePlus. 2023. Accessed August 18, 2024. https://medlineplus.gov/genetics/condition/androgenetic-alopecia/#resources

    3.      Ntshingila S, Oputu O, Arowolo AT, Khumalo NP. Androgenetic alopecia: An update. JAAD International. 2023;13:150-158. doi:10.1016/j.jdin.2023.07.005 

  • Androgenetic Alopecia

    Androgenetic Alopecia

    Androgenetic Alopecia

    Definition: Androgenic Alopecia (AGA) is one of the most common types of hair loss and is characterized by the androgen-dependent reduction of terminal hairs into thin vellus hairs (1). 

    Etiology:  AGA is a hereditary disorder for which there is no known cure and is mainly influenced by androgens such as dihydrotestosterone (1). 

    Epidemiology: AGA affects both men and women with different balding patterns (1,3). The prevalence differs with men being more commonly affected (3).

    Signs: In women’s hair the frontal hairline is usually retained with diffuse thinning throughout the crown (2). In males, the thinning starts at the vertex and temples leading to receding in a characteristic “M” shape (2)

    Symptoms: Typically asymptomatic but can have psychological impacts due to the impact on the patient’s appearance. 

    Differentials: Alopecia Areata, Frontal Fibrosing Alopecia, Hereditary hypotrichosis complex, Telogen effluvium, Triangular Alopecia, Trichorhinophalangeal syndrome (1).

    Diagnosis: Advanced AGA is a clinical diagnosis, however in early AGA scalp dermoscopy, pull tests, hair and scalp examinations and biopsies may be used (3). Dermoscopy will show miniaturized hair follicles. (3)

    Treatment: There are only two drugs available, topical Minoxidil (men and women), a pyrimidine derivative and oral finasteride, a SRD5A2 inhibitor (for men only) (1,3).

    References: (AMA)

    1.     Khan Mohammad Beigi P. Alopecia areata. Published online 2018. doi:10.1007/978-3-319-72134-7

    2.     Androgenetic alopecia: Medlineplus genetics. MedlinePlus. 2023. Accessed August 18, 2024. https://medlineplus.gov/genetics/condition/androgenetic-alopecia/#resources

    3.      Ntshingila S, Oputu O, Arowolo AT, Khumalo NP. Androgenetic alopecia: An update. JAAD International. 2023;13:150-158. doi:10.1016/j.jdin.2023.07.005 

  • Alopecia Areata

    Alopecia Areata

    Alopecia Areata

    Definition: A common autoimmune condition that is marked by abrupt, non-scarring hair loss on the scalp and other parts of the body go (1)

    Etiology: Many etiologies have been proposed but it is believed that the condition is caused by an autoimmune attack on the hair follicles, leading to hair loss. In addition, environmental factors, genetic predisposition and stress may also play a role (1,2).

    Epidemiology: Alopecia Areat (AA) affects 0.1-0.2% of the overall population with no gender predilection. (1,2).

    Signs: AA is characterized by well-demarcated oval or round patches of hair loss, the lesions may be solitary or multiple with 90% of cases affecting the scalp (2).

    Symptoms: Typically asymptomatic however some patients may experience nail changes, tingling or burning sensation, irritated eyes if loss of hair in eyelashes or eyebrows (3).

    Differentials: Telogen effluvium, Trichotillomania,Tinea capitis, Early scarring Alopecia, Anagen effluvium, Systemic lupus erythematosus, Secondary syphilis and androgenic Alopecia (1,2). 

    Diagnosis: The diagnosis is clinical with a thorough history and routine investigations such as complete hemogram, anemia panel, erythrocyte sedimentation rate, etc (2). Dermoscopic histological examination is a great tool in diagnosing AA and in more uncertain cases a biopsy may also be performed (1).

    Treatment: In a majority of cases the condition is self-limited and regrowth typically will happen within a year (1). In patients where AA is persistent corticosteroids can be prescribed to stimulate hair growth follow by minoxidil to maintain the growth (3).

    References: (AMA)

    1.     Khan Mohammad Beigi P. Alopecia areata. Published online 2018. doi:10.1007/978-3-319-72134-7 

    1. Amin SS, Sachdeva S. Alopecia areata: A Review. Journal of the Saudi Society of Dermatology & Dermatologic Surgery. 2013;17(2):37-45. doi:10.1016/j.jssdds.2013.05.004 
    2. Ludmann P. Hair loss types: Alopecia areata diagnosis and treatment. American Academy of Dermatology. 2023. Accessed August 18, 2024. https://www.aad.org/public/diseases/hair-loss/types/alopecia/treatment. 
  • Alopecia Areata

    Alopecia Areata

    Alopecia Areata

    Definition: A common autoimmune condition that is marked by abrupt, non-scarring hair loss on the scalp and other parts of the body go (1)

    Etiology: Many etiologies have been proposed but it is believed that the condition is caused by an autoimmune attack on the hair follicles, leading to hair loss. In addition, environmental factors, genetic predisposition and stress may also play a role (1,2).

    Epidemiology: Alopecia Areat (AA) affects 0.1-0.2% of the overall population with no gender predilection. (1,2).

    Signs: AA is characterized by well-demarcated oval or round patches of hair loss, the lesions may be solitary or multiple with 90% of cases affecting the scalp (2).

    Symptoms: Typically asymptomatic however some patients may experience nail changes, tingling or burning sensation, irritated eyes if loss of hair in eyelashes or eyebrows (3).

    Differentials: Telogen effluvium, Trichotillomania,Tinea capitis, Early scarring Alopecia, Anagen effluvium, Systemic lupus erythematosus, Secondary syphilis and androgenic Alopecia (1,2). 

    Diagnosis: The diagnosis is clinical with a thorough history and routine investigations such as complete hemogram, anemia panel, erythrocyte sedimentation rate, etc (2). Dermoscopic histological examination is a great tool in diagnosing AA and in more uncertain cases a biopsy may also be performed (1).

    Treatment: In a majority of cases the condition is self-limited and regrowth typically will happen within a year (1). In patients where AA is persistent corticosteroids can be prescribed to stimulate hair growth follow by minoxidil to maintain the growth (3).

    References: (AMA)

    1.     Khan Mohammad Beigi P. Alopecia areata. Published online 2018. doi:10.1007/978-3-319-72134-7 

    1. Amin SS, Sachdeva S. Alopecia areata: A Review. Journal of the Saudi Society of Dermatology & Dermatologic Surgery. 2013;17(2):37-45. doi:10.1016/j.jssdds.2013.05.004 
    2. Ludmann P. Hair loss types: Alopecia areata diagnosis and treatment. American Academy of Dermatology. 2023. Accessed August 18, 2024. https://www.aad.org/public/diseases/hair-loss/types/alopecia/treatment.