Step 1:  Alopecia Totalis Treatments

Treatments for Alopecia Totalis

The main Alopecia Totalis treatments are therapies which focus on immunomodulation, such as glucocorticoid injections, anthralin, or glucocorticoids taken orally. We have heard reports from some that years of steroid therapy can put the condition into remission. Years of steroid therapy is not always enjoyable however, as there are side effects. It is important to comment that Rogaine (Minoxidil) is not effective for those with Alopecia Totalis. Some treatments which have been considered include Methotrexate, a treatment for autoimmune disorders, and corticosteroids have been proposed as treatments.

Several genes have been studied and quite a bit of research has focused on the human leukocyte antigen. Two studies demonstrated that human leukocyte antigen DQ3 (DQB1*03) was found in more than 80% of patients with Alopecia Areata, which suggests that it can be a marker for general susceptibility to Alopecia Areata. The studies also found that HLA DQ7 (DQB1*0301) and human leukocyte antigen DR4 (DRB1*0401) were found quite a bit more often in patients with Alopecia Totalis (AT) and Alopecia Universalis (AU).

The Good News

The comforting news is that alopecia totalis is not a painful disease and does not make people feel sick. It is not contagious, and people who have the disease are usually otherwise healthy. It has no effect on life expectancy, and will not interfere with your ability to pursue a normal lifestyle. It can be difficult living with hair loss however. It can help to learn about the condition, and speak with others who have the same situation. Professional therapy can also help quite a bit. Returning to your faith can play a major role in understanding what is going on, too. HairLossTalk offers a wonderful Online Community of people who suffer from Alopecia Totalis. Having a community who are all going through the same thing can make all the difference. We hope you will register and participate.