Alopecia Areata: Causes and Treatment Methods – Explained by a Doctor

円形脱毛症の原因・治療法｜医師が解説

"Suddenly, a round bald spot appeared." "I was diagnosed with alopecia areata, but how should I treat it?" -- Alopecia areata is an autoimmune disease, and many people can recover with appropriate treatment. Our clinic offers various treatments including excimer light therapy, topical steroids, injections, and oral medications.

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Jujo Station Haru Internal Medicine & Dermatology Clinic Waiting Area
Our clinic's waiting area. You can relax while waiting for your examination in a bright and clean space.

What is alopecia areata and its causes?

Alopecia areata is an autoimmune disease caused by immune cells (T cells) mistakenly attacking hair follicles. It is characterized by the sudden appearance of circular or oval bald patches, and it is estimated that about 1-2% of Japanese people experience it.

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Content

Main causes

Autoimmune abnormalities (T cell attack on hair follicles). Complex involvement of genetic predisposition + environmental factors (stress, infections, etc.)

Relationship with stress

Stress can be an aggravating factor, but it is not "the only cause." Treatment as an autoimmune disease is necessary.

Possibility of natural remission

Approximately 80% of single-spot cases may recover naturally within 1 year. Multi-spot, totalis, and universalis types require treatment.

Common associated conditions

Frequently associated with atopic dermatitis, thyroid diseases, and vitiligo.

Treatment Options

Treatment Method

Indication

Features

Topical steroids

Mild to moderate cases

First-line treatment. Suppresses immune response in hair follicles. Effects seen after several months.

Local steroid injection

Localized bald patches

Direct injection of steroids into bald patches. More effective than topical application.

Excimer light therapy

Localized to moderate cases

Suppresses immune response with 308nm UV light. Covered by insurance. Insurance coverage expanded in 2020.

Cepharanthine (oral)

Widespread or recurrent cases

Anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory effects. Few side effects, suitable for long-term use.

Glycyrrhizin (intravenous)

Severe cases, adjunctive therapy

Anti-inflammatory effect. Administered via IV drip.

JAK inhibitors (ritlecitinib, etc.)

Severe/refractory cases

Approved for severe alopecia areata in 2023. Highly effective new drug.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q. Does alopecia areata heal naturally?

For single-spot type (1-2 bald patches), about 80% are said to recover naturally within one year. However, for multi-spot, totalis, and universalis types, natural healing is difficult and active treatment is necessary. If the area is wide or progressing rapidly, please see a doctor as soon as possible.

Q. Is excimer light therapy for alopecia areata covered by insurance?

Yes, alopecia areata was added to the list of conditions covered by insurance for excimer light therapy in 2020. The cost is approximately 1,000-2,000 yen per session for a 30% co-payment.

Q. I was told stress is the cause, what should I do?

While stress is an aggravating factor, the fundamental cause of alopecia areata is an autoimmune disease. Stress management is important, but it alone is not enough for improvement, so we recommend receiving dermatological treatment in parallel.

Q. Which department should I see?

Dermatology is the specialized department. Our clinic (Dermatology) also provides examination and treatment.

Reception
Reception desk. Cashless payments are also accepted.

Consultation Flow

  1. WEB reservation or walk-in
    If you have severe pain or fever, please contact us by phone. We will guide you through the consultation process.
  2. Reception and filling out the medical questionnaire
    Please indicate when, where, what symptoms you have, the material of your piercing, and any past piercing troubles.
  3. Examination by a doctor
    We will determine the extent and severity of the inflammation through visual inspection and palpation. If necessary, a bacterial culture test will be performed.
  4. Treatment and prescription
    Depending on the severity, we will perform treatments such as topical/oral antibiotics, disinfection, and incision and drainage.
  5. Home care guidance
    We will carefully explain washing methods, disinfection methods, whether to remove piercings, and precautions in daily life.
  6. Payment and departure
    We will inform you about the estimated time for your next visit and advice on preventing recurrence.

Opening Hours / Access

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Clinic Name Jujo Station Haru Internal Medicine & Dermatology Clinic
Consultation Hours Monday to Sunday, open from 9 AM every morning. Wednesdays open until 8 PM, Fridays and Saturdays until 9 PM, and Sundays until 7 PM.
Closed None (Irregular holidays)
Address J&MALL 1F, 2-27-1 Kami-Jujo, Kita-ku, Tokyo 114-0034
By train/on foot Approximately 1-2 minutes walk from JR Saikyo Line "Jujo Station", J&MALL (J-Mall) 1st floor
By bus Right in front of Kokusai Kogyo Bus "Jujo Station" bus stop
By car Please use nearby coin parking lots
Contact TEL: 03-6698-2509 ／ Official LINE:https://lin.ee/AL0fp3z
Call Us Official LINE Online Reservation (Priority Guidance)
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