What causes alopecia areata in individuals?

Alopecia areata is primarily classified as an autoimmune disorder. In individuals affected by this condition, the immune system mistakenly attacks hair follicles, leading to hair loss in patches. This misdirected immune response can occur in stages, with some individuals experiencing intermittent episodes of hair loss and regrowth.

While genetic predisposition and environmental factors may play a role in predisposing individuals to alopecia areata, the core mechanism behind the condition is the autoimmune response. Hormonal imbalances can lead to other forms of hair loss but are not the direct cause of alopecia areata. The unique nature of this condition highlights the importance of understanding the immune system's role in hair follicle health and regrowth, which distinguishes it from other hair loss types.