Alopecia adnata is a medical condition causing hair loss on the scalp where hair never grew. The word "alopecia" is pronounced /ˌæləˈpiːʃə/ with stress on the second syllable, while "adnata" is pronounced /ædˈneɪtə/ with stress on the first syllable. The spelling of "alopecia" comes from the Greek word "alopekia," meaning fox mange, while "adnata" is derived from Latin suffix "-natus," meaning born. People suffering from alopecia adnata should seek medical attention for proper diagnosis and treatment.
Alopecia adnata is a medical term used to describe a rare condition in which a person is born without any hair on their body, including the scalp. The term "alopecia" refers to hair loss or baldness, while "adnata" indicates a congenital or innate condition present from birth.
Individuals with alopecia adnata typically have a complete absence of hair follicles, resulting in a smooth and shiny appearance of the skin devoid of any hair growth. This condition can affect both males and females, and it is often accompanied by other abnormalities or syndromes.
The exact cause of alopecia adnata is not well understood. It is believed to be a result of certain genetic mutations or disruptions during the development of hair follicles in the womb. In some cases, it may be associated with other genetic disorders or syndromes that affect the overall growth and development of an individual.
Living with alopecia adnata can have significant emotional and psychosocial impacts, as it may cause feelings of self-consciousness, low self-esteem, and social isolation. Treatment options for this condition are limited, and they usually focus on supporting individuals and addressing any associated health issues.
In summary, alopecia adnata is a rare congenital condition characterized by the absence of hair follicles from birth, leading to complete hair loss on the body. Further research and understanding of the condition are necessary to provide more comprehensive treatment and support options for affected individuals.
Congenital baldness.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
The term "alopecia adnata" is a medical term used to describe the congenital absence or loss of hair at birth. The etymology of this term can be broken down as follows:
1. Alopecia: This word has its roots in the Greek language. "Alopex" in Greek means "fox", and "-ia" is a suffix used to denote a state or condition. Alopecia, therefore, refers to a condition where hair loss or baldness occurs.
2. Adnata: This word also finds its origin in Greek. "Ad" in Greek means "without", and "nata" refers to "birth". Adnata, hence, signifies the absence or loss of something present at birth.
Therefore, the term "alopecia adnata" combines these Greek components to describe the specific condition of being born without hair or experiencing hair loss at birth.