What is alopecia areata a precursor to in terms of cancer?

Written by Liu Gang
Dermatology
Updated on September 19, 2024
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Alopecia areata is a condition characterized by patchy hair loss on the scalp caused by various triggering factors. This disease generally has no correlation with cancer nor is it a precursor to cancer. Most of the factors contributing to the condition are related to reduced immunity, genetic predisposition, lack of vitamins and trace elements, consumption of spicy and stimulating food, frequent staying up late, and stress. Therefore, the treatment of this disease involves a comprehensive approach. It is advised to consult a dermatologist at a reputable hospital for a holistic diagnosis and subsequent treatment. With long-term persistence in treatment, the condition can be completely cured. It is also important to regulate one's diet and lifestyle habits, engage in regular exercise to boost immunity, and ensure a diverse diet to avoid selective or partial eating.

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Written by Huang Ling Juan
Dermatology
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How long will it take for alopecia areata to fully recover once fuzz has started to grow?

Alopecia areata, once showing new fuzz, usually takes three to six months to return to normal. The appearance of fuzz indicates that the alopecia areata is in the recovery phase. In the early recovery stage, lighter-colored fuzz will grow in the area where hair was lost, and this fuzz will gradually turn into normal hair. During the active phase of alopecia areata, there will be noticeable hair loss, while in the dormant phase, the hair loss will stop. Three to four months after the dormant phase, most patients enter the recovery phase, reaching the stage where this small fuzz appears. Hence, the appearance of such fuzz signifies that the alopecia areata is nearing recovery, and new hair will grow during this phase. There are many causes of alopecia areata; it is important to avoid staying up late regularly.

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Written by Liu Gang
Dermatology
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Can alopecia areata be cured after two years?

If alopecia areata has not improved after two years, it may be related to one's treatment plan or dietary and lifestyle habits. Some individuals might not have received treatment or used improper treatment methods. Consuming spicy and heavily flavored foods, enduring prolonged periods of staying up late, feeling anxious or stressed, or having poor physical health could all potentially contribute to persistent alopecia areata. It is advisable to visit a dermatology department at a reputable hospital to examine the hair follicles to see if there is any atrophy or necrosis. If the hair follicles are found to be atrophied or necrotic, the treatment will be more challenging. Generally, the most conventional treatment involving oral medication along with topical applications must be complemented by proper dietary and lifestyle habits. With long-term treatment, it is entirely possible to fully recover. It is essential to maintain a good mood, engage in regular exercise, and boost the immune system.

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Written by Liu Gang
Dermatology
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Is rubbing ginger useful for alopecia areata?

Alopecia areata is commonly treated by applying raw ginger topically, which has a certain effect. Rubbing ginger juice on the affected scalp area can stimulate hair follicles and improve local blood circulation, offering some therapeutic benefits for alopecia areata. However, this is generally only used for mild symptoms or cases that have just developed. If the alopecia areata has been present for a long time or if long-term medication has been ineffective, the application of ginger tends to be minimally effective. If the symptoms are severe, it is advisable to seek formal treatment at a dermatology department of a regular hospital. Adjusting one's diet and lifestyle habits is important; avoid spicy and irritating foods, and do not consume overly salty or highly flavored foods. Strengthening exercise, avoiding staying up late, and preventing anxiety and stress are also recommended.

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Written by Liu Jing
Dermatology
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How long does it generally take for a small patch of alopecia areata to recover?

Alopecia areata, commonly known as "ghost shearing", is often related to immune factors in its causes and mechanism of onset. It is important to rest and provide symptomatic treatment with immune modulation. Generally, recovery can be expected within about a month. Oral medications such as cysteine tablets, folic acid tablets, vitamin B6 tablets, and pimecrolimus granules can be taken. In the area affected by alopecia areata, topical application of dermatan sulfate polysaccharide cream, tacrolimus ointment, combined with the use of minoxidil solution is recommended to promote local circulation and thereby facilitate hair regrowth. Additionally, other physical therapy measures can be supportive, including traditional Chinese medicine treatments such as plum-blossom needle tapping and local intense pulsed light therapy. (Medication should be used under the guidance of a doctor.)

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Written by Liu Gang
Dermatology
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Does alopecia areata spread?

Alopecia areata manifests as patchy hair loss on the scalp. In its early stages, or when symptoms are mild, many people can fully recover by adjusting their diet or lifestyle habits, without experiencing any spread of the condition. However, if left to develop over a long period, the symptoms might worsen. It is necessary to avoid spicy, highly flavorful, or irritating foods, and to maintain a healthy lifestyle free of anxiety, stress, sleep deprivation, and bad moods. Upon noticing symptoms, it is advisable to consult the dermatology department of a reputable hospital. There, doctors can make a comprehensive diagnosis and create a treatment plan. With long-term adherence, the condition is entirely treatable.