Hairloss due to Autoimmune Disease - Alopecia Universalis

Alopecia Universalis is characterized by a total loss of body hair. The only difference between Alopecia Areata and Alopecia Universalis is the amount of hair loss.

Those affected by the condition are usually otherwise healthy, but have more thyroid disease and vitiligo than the general population. Those with vitiligo (patchy loss of skin color) may also develop AU in time. Many individuals with Alopecia Universalis are born with some hair, but then begin losing it very quickly.

It is important that those with it are careful to protect themselves from the sun, bacteria, and other potentially harmful elements, as the scalp, nasal cavity and eyes are not protected.

According to the National Alopecia Areata Foundation, other than the hair, nails can also be affected. The nail involvement may be limited to pinprick indentations, all the way to severe distortion of the entire nail. Alopecia Universalis may be acute and short-lived, or remain permanently. The possibility of regrowth does remain however, even for those with 100% hair loss for many years.