Alopecia areata is characterized by

• A. The gradual thinning of hair
• B. Patchy hair loss with scarring
• C. Total scalp hair loss
• D. The sudden falling out of hair

Answer: (D)

Alopecia areata shows up as sudden, patchy hair loss on the scalp or other areas, and it does not scar the skin. This abrupt onset is what makes the description of sudden hair loss the best match. The condition is autoimmune, leading to rapid shedding in patches, and follicles are usually preserved, allowing regrowth over time.

Gradual thinning is typical of androgenetic alopecia, which involves progressive thinning rather than abrupt patchy shedding. Patchy loss with scarring would indicate a scarring (cicatricial) type of alopecia, where follicles are destroyed and leaves scars. Total scalp hair loss describes a more extensive form (alopecia totalis) and isn’t the usual presenting pattern.