Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jun 19, 2026

06:41
A New Technique for Quantitative Analysis of Hair Loss in Mice Using Grayscale Analysis
Published on: March 9, 2015
Alopecia areata and autoimmunity: a clinical study
1Department of Dermatology, Christian Medical College and Hospital, Ludhiana - 141 008, Punjab, India. emyabi@gmail.com
Indian Journal of Dermatology
|November 3, 2009
Summary
Alopecia areata (AA) is often linked to other autoimmune conditions. This study found thyroid disorders, particularly hypothyroidism, and atopic dermatitis are significantly more common in AA patients.
Area of Science:
- Dermatology
- Immunology
- Endocrinology
Background:
- Alopecia areata (AA) is an autoimmune condition frequently associated with other autoimmune diseases.
- Limited research exists on comprehensive studies of concomitant cutaneous and systemic diseases in AA patients.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the significant associations between alopecia areata and other autoimmune, cutaneous, and systemic diseases.
Main Methods:
- A case-control study involving 71 patients diagnosed with alopecia areata and 71 controls.
- Analysis of the frequency and statistical significance of associated conditions.
Main Results:
- Thyroid disorders showed the highest frequency (O/E ratio 3.2, P=0.01), with hypothyroidism being the most common (14.1%).
- Atopic dermatitis was the most frequent cutaneous association (O/E ratio 2.5).
Conclusions:
- There is a statistically significant association between alopecia areata and thyroid disorders.
- Patients with alopecia areata should be screened for associated conditions like atopy, thyroid diseases, anemias, and other autoimmune disorders, especially in chronic or extensive cases.
Related Concept Videos
Autoimmune Disorders
Autoimmune diseases are a group of disorders in which the body's immune system mistakenly attacks its own cells, tissues, and organs. This results from an overactive immune response against substances and tissues normally present in the body. Let's delve into the concept and mechanism of autoimmune diseases from an immune system point of view, explore different causes and examples of such diseases, and discuss potential solutions.
Concept and Mechanism of Autoimmune Diseases
The immune system...
Concept and Mechanism of Autoimmune Diseases
The immune system...
Skin Diseases and Disorders
Skin is the first line of defense and encounters a variety of microbes. Some pathogenic strains are often the cause of a broad range of infections of the skin and other body systems. These conditions can affect people of all ages and may have different causes, including genetic factors, infections, autoimmune reactions, environmental factors, and lifestyle choices.
Gram-positive Staphylococcus spp. and Streptococcus spp. are responsible for many of the most common skin infections. However, many...
Gram-positive Staphylococcus spp. and Streptococcus spp. are responsible for many of the most common skin infections. However, many...
Graves' Disease I: Introduction
Graves' disease is an autoimmune disorder that causes hyperthyroidism, or overactivity of the thyroid gland. It results from autoantibodies called thyroid-stimulating immunoglobulins (TSIs), which bind to thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) receptors, leading to overstimulation of hormone production and a hypermetabolic state.EtiologyAlthough considered idiopathic, Graves’ disease has well-established contributing factors. There is a strong genetic component, with increased prevalence in...

