Alopecia Universalis: Understanding the Symptoms, Causes, and Treatment Options
Alopecia universalis is a rare autoimmune disorder.
It results in complete hair loss from all areas of the body.
These include the scalp, eyebrows, eyelashes, and pubic hair.
As per The National Alopecia Areata Foundation, about 1 in 4,000 people in the world has Alopecia universalis.
Doctors consider it an advanced form of Alopecia areata, which causes patchy hair loss.
Alopecia universalis occurs when the immune system mistakenly attacks hair follicles.
As a result, the follicles shrink and slow down hair production.
The actual causes of this condition are not understood, but environmental and genetic factors are thought to play a role.
There is no known cure for Alopecia universalis, and treatment options aim to manage symptoms and promote hair regrowth.
Continue reading to learn more about Alopecia universalis.
Alopecia universalis symptoms
The primary symptom of Alopecia universalis is the complete loss of hair from the entire body.
These include the scalp, eyebrows, eyelashes, and pubic hair.
This hair loss is usually sudden and can occur at any age.
In some cases, individuals may also experience nail abnormalities, such as pitting or ridges.
Alopecia universalis is not associated with any physical pain or discomfort. Yet, it can have significant psychological effects.
These include anxiety, depression, and a decreased sense of self-esteem.
As the skin is no longer protected by hair, the condition can also increase the risk of sunburn and skin damage.
Alopecia universalis causes
The exact cause of Alopecia universalis is not known, but it is believed to be an autoimmune disorder.
In this condition, the immune system accidentally attacks the hair follicles.
As a result, the follicles shrink and slow down hair production.
Hair growth stops, leading to complete hair loss from all body areas.
There may be genetic factors that contribute to the development of Alopecia universalis.
Studies have found that individuals with a family history of Alopecia areata or other autoimmune disorders may be more likely to develop this condition.
Environmental factors like stress and infections can trigger the condition. Even certain medications may also trigger or worsen symptoms.
To understand the causes of this condition, more research is needed.
Alopecia universalis side effects
The condition can have various side effects that can impact a person’s quality of life. These include social and emotional well-being.
Physical (social) side effects may include
- Sunburn
- Sensitivity to cold temperatures
- A higher risk of developing skin cancer due to the absence of hair as a natural protection
Emotional side effects may include
- Anxiety
- Depression
- A negative impact on body image and self-esteem, as hair loss can be stigmatized by society.
Alopecia universalis treatment
Alopecia universalis is a rare autoimmune disorder.
It results in complete hair loss from the scalp and the rest of the body.
While there is no known cure for Alopecia universalis, various treatment options are available.
These can help manage symptoms and slow down or halt hair loss.
Here are some of the available treatment options for Alopecia universalis.
Topical immunotherapy
This treatment involves applying a chemical, such as Diphencyprone or Squaric acid dibutylester, to the bald areas of the scalp.
This chemical causes an allergic reaction in the skin, which can stimulate hair growth.
Topical immunotherapy is a long-term treatment that requires multiple applications over several months.
Corticosteroids
Corticosteroids are anti-inflammatory drugs. They can either be taken orally, injected into the scalp, or applied topically.
These medications can help reduce inflammation in the hair follicles and promote hair growth.
However, long-term use of corticosteroids can have side effects. These include weight gain, high blood pressure, and weakened bones.
Immunomodulators
These drugs work by compressing the immune system and reducing inflammation in the hair follicles.
Examples of immunomodulators used to treat Alopecia universalis include Methotrexate, Cyclosporine, and Azathioprine.
Minoxidil
Minoxidil is a topical medication used to treat male and female pattern baldness.
It can also be used to stimulate hair growth in people with Alopecia universalis.
Mintop Solution 2% (60 ml) is applied to the scalp and can take up to six months to produce results.
JAK inhibitors
Janus kinase (JAK) inhibitors are the latest class of drugs that work.
They block the activity of certain enzymes that contribute to hair loss.
The FDA approved two JAK inhibitors, Tofacitinib and Ruxolitinib, to treat Alopecia areata.
Clinical trials are currently in the developmental stage.
This will help researchers determine the effectiveness of JAK inhibitors. It will help in treating Alopecia universalis.
Hairpieces
Wearing a wig or other hairpiece can be effective for people with severe or widespread hair loss.
It can be a way to improve their appearance and self-esteem.
Hairpieces can be made from synthetic or human hair and customized to match the person’s natural hair color and style.
It’s important to remember that the effectiveness of these treatments can vary from person to person.
Some treatments may even have side effects.
Alopecia areata vs Alopecia universalis
Alopecia areata and Alopecia universalis are two different types of hair loss conditions.
Yet, they have some key differences.
Here are the key highlights of differentiation between Alopecia areata and Alopecia universalis.
| Factors | Alopecia areata | Alopecia universalis |
|---|---|---|
| Pattern of hair loss | Patchy hair loss on the scalp or other areas of the body. | Complete hair loss from the scalp and the rest of the body. |
| Cause | Occurs when the immune system attacks the hair follicles, causing them to shrink and slow down hair production. | Here the immune system attacks all hair follicles in the body. |
| Prevalence | Alopecia areata has affected an estimated 2% of the population worldwide. | Alopecia universalis is much rarer, affecting only about 1 in 10,000 people. |
| Symptoms | Alopecia areata may cause itching, burning, or tingling sensations in the affected area. | Alopecia universalis may cause additional symptoms, such as sensitivity to cold, sunburn, and an increased risk of skin cancer due to the absence of hair as a natural protection. |
| Treatment | Treatment options for Alopecia areata may include Corticosteroids, Topical immunotherapy, and JAK inhibitors. It depends on the severity and extent of hair loss. | Treatment for Alopecia universalis may be more challenging. It requires stimulating hair growth across the entire body. Treatment options may include immunosuppressants, hairpieces, and other supportive therapies. |
Overall, Alopecia areata and Alopecia universalis are both autoimmune disorders that cause hair loss.
Alopecia universalis is a more severe form of the condition that affects the entire body.
Whereas Alopecia areata typically causes patchy hair loss on the scalp or other areas of the body.
Takeaway
Alopecia universalis is a rare autoimmune disorder that causes complete hair loss from the scalp and the rest of the body.
The condition can significantly impact a person’s physical and emotional well-being.
The treatment options can vary depending on the severity of the condition.
While there is no known cure for Alopecia universalis, several treatment options are available.
These options can help manage symptoms and slow down hair loss.
It’s essential to work with a healthcare provider. They determine the best course of treatment for each individual.
Frequently Asked Questions
How rare is Alopecia universalis?
Alopecia universalis is a scarce condition. It affects only about 1 in 10,000 people worldwide. It is a more severe form of Alopecia areata.
What is Alopecia universalis?
Alopecia universalis is an autoimmune disorder. It causes complete hair loss from the scalp and the rest of the body. It is a rare and severe form of Alopecia areata.
Can Alopecia universalis be cured?
Currently, there is no known cure for Alopecia universalis. But, various treatment options are available that can help manage symptoms and slow down or halt hair loss. These include Corticosteroids, Minoxidil, Hairpieces, etc.
Can Alopecia universalis be reversed?
No, it is not possible to completely reverse the condition. There is no known cure for Alopecia universalis. Treatment options may help stimulate hair growth and slow down hair thinning.
