What is Ringworm (Alopecia Areata)?

Alopecia Areata is an autoimmune skin disease that occurs when immune system cells attack hair follicles.In this case, the body perceives its own hair follicles as foreign tissue and develops an immune response against them.As a result, sudden, round or oval hair loss occurs on the scalp, beard or other parts of the body..

  • This disease, which is quite common in society, can affect both men and women.
  • Although it usually begins in adolescence or young adulthood, it can occur at any age.
  • Alopecia areata can cause intense stress, anxiety, and loss of self-confidence in patients due to its effect on physical appearance.

 

What Causes Ringworm?

Although the exact cause of ringworm is not known exactly, the unbalanced functioning of the immune system is the most important factor.Immune cells target hair follicles, initiating an inflammatory process that leads to hair loss.Some risk factors that may be effective in the emergence of the disease are::

  • Having a family history of ringworm
  • Thyroid diseases and other autoimmune diseases such as vitiligo
  • Intense stress and emotional trauma
  • Vitamin D, iron, or zinc deficiency
  • Genetic predisposition

While ringworm is seen in a limited area in some people, sometimes widespread forms affecting all hair, beard and body hair can develop..


 

What are the symptoms of ringworm?

Ringworm usually manifests itself as clearly defined, round or oval bald patches that appear suddenly on the scalp.The hair loss areas are smooth and usually non-itchy.Other symptoms may include::

  • Patchy hair loss in the beard area (beard baldness)
  • Loss of eyebrows or eyelashes
  • Thinning, striation or roughness of nails
  • Thinning of the hair ends in the area of ​​loss (typical “exclamation mark” appearance)

Ringworm is usually painless, but psychological stress can negatively affect the course of the disease..


 

How Is Ringworm Diagnosed?

Ringworm is usually diagnosed through a clinical examination by a dermatologist.The typical appearance of the hair follicles during examination with a magnified device called a dermatoscope (trichoscope) supports the diagnosis.In some cases, blood tests or a biopsy may be necessary to avoid confusion with other causes of hair loss..


 

How is Ringworm Treated?

The aim of ringworm treatment is to stop the immune cells from attacking the hair follicles and restart hair growth.The treatment process is planned individually according to the prevalence and duration of the disease and the age of the patient..

  1. Corticosteroid InjectionsIt's one of the most common and effective treatment methods. A dermatologist injects low-dose corticosteroids into balding areas once a month using a fine needle. New hair growth usually begins in the bald areas within 1–3 months.
  2. Topical (Applied) TreatmentsCortisone cream, lotion, or minoxidil spray can be used in children or when injections are not appropriate. These products help stimulate hair follicles.
  3. Topical ImmunotherapyIn extensive or refractory cases, immunotherapy with agents such as diphencyprone (DPCP) or squaric acid dibutyl ester (SADBE) may be applied.
  4. Systemic TreatmentsOral corticosteroids or immunomodulatory medications may be used for large-area hair loss. These treatments should always be used under the supervision of a dermatologist.
  5. Supportive TreatmentsHair PRP and hair mesotherapy treatments support other treatments by increasing blood flow and repair to hair follicles. Additionally, addressing vitamin D, iron (ferritin), zinc, and B12 deficiencies increases the success of the treatment.

 

Things to Consider in Patients with Ringworm

  • Stress can trigger the disease, so psychological support may be necessary.
  • Regular dermatological follow-up is important to prevent recurrences.
  • Starting treatment in the early stages of the disease increases the likelihood of hair regrowth.
  • Self-applied wrong products or cosmetic procedures can damage hair follicles.

Alopecia Areata is a hair loss disease that can be controlled with correct diagnosis and regular treatment.Early intervention and regular follow-up are key to treatment success..