Questions and Answers About Alopecia Areata

This booklet contains general information about alopecia areata (al-oh-PEE-shah ar-ee-AH-tah). It describes what alopecia is, its causes, and treatment options. Information is also provided on current research. If you have further questions after reading this booklet, you may wish to discuss them with your doctor.

• What Is Alopecia Areata?
• What Causes It?
• Who Is Most Likely To Get It?
• Is My Hair Loss a Symptom of a Serious Disease?
• Can I Pass It on to My Children?
• Will My Hair Ever Grow Back?
• What Can I Expect Next?
• How Is It Treated?
• How Will Alopecia Areata Affect My Life?
• How Can I Cope With the Effects of This Disease?
• Is Research Close to Finding Better Treatments or a Cure?
• How Can I Take Part in Research?
• Where Can I Learn More About Alopecia Areata?
• Glossary

Copyright Notice:

Reprinted with permission from:

National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal
and Skin Diseases (NIAMS)
NIAMS/National Institutes of Health
1 AMS Circle
Bethesda, MD 20892-3675