Question

a patient is seen in the clinic for patches of hair loss. the provider notes several well - demarcated patches on the scalp and eyebrows without areas of inflammation and several hairs within the patch with thinner shafts near the scalp. based on these findings, which type of alopecia is most likely?

alopecia areata

anagen effluvium

cicatricial alopecia

telogen effluvium

Explanation:

Alopecia areata is characterized by well - demarcated patches of hair loss without inflammation. Anagen effluvium is due to damage to hair follicles during anagen phase often from cytotoxic agents. Cicatricial alopecia involves scarring and destruction of hair follicles. Telogen effluvium is due to increased number of hairs in telogen phase often from stress or hormonal changes. The description in the question matches alopecia areata.

Answer:

Alopecia areata