Alopecia cicatrisata is a medical term used to refer to hair loss caused by scarring. It is derived from two Latin words, "alopecia" meaning hair loss and "cicatrisata" meaning scarred. The correct pronunciation of the word is [æləˈpiːʃə ˌsɪkəˈtraɪzətə], with emphasis on the second syllable of each word. The spelling may seem daunting, but the IPA phonetic transcription breaks it down into manageable segments. Understanding the phonetic transcription can help simplify the pronunciation of medical terms like Alopecia cicatrisata.
Alopecia cicatrisata is a medical condition characterized by the development of permanent hair loss due to scarring on the scalp. The term "alopecia" refers to hair loss, while "cicatrisata" comes from the word "cicatrix," which means scar. This condition is also commonly known as scarring alopecia.
Alopecia cicatrisata is caused by inflammation, which leads to the destruction of hair follicles and subsequent scarring. It can result from various factors, including autoimmune diseases such as lupus erythematosus or lichen planopilaris, infections, trauma, or burns to the scalp. The scarring that occurs in this condition irreversibly damages the hair follicles, preventing hair regrowth.
Symptoms of alopecia cicatrisata include progressive hair thinning, patches of baldness, and, in advanced cases, complete baldness in affected areas. The scalp may also appear red, inflamed, or have visible scars. In some cases, individuals may experience itching, burning, or tenderness in areas affected by hair loss.
Alopecia cicatrisata is a permanent and irreversible condition with no known cure. Treatment options are aimed at slowing down the progression, reducing inflammation, and managing symptoms. These may include corticosteroid creams or injections, immunosuppressive medications, topical minoxidil, or photodynamic therapy. In severe cases where scarring is extensive, surgical intervention such as hair transplant may be considered.
It is essential for individuals experiencing hair loss to consult with a healthcare professional to determine the underlying cause and appropriate treatment options for alopecia cicatrisata, as early intervention may help prevent further hair loss and improve symptoms.
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A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
The word "alopecia cicatrisata" is a combination of two terms: "alopecia" and "cicatrisata".
1. "Alopecia" is derived from the Ancient Greek word "alōpēx", meaning "fox". In medical context, "alopecia" refers to the partial or complete loss of hair from areas where it normally grows, resulting in hairlessness.
2. "Cicatrisata" is the past participle of the Latin verb "cicatrisare", which means "to scar". It is derived from the Latin noun "cicatrix", meaning "scar". In medical terminology, "cicatrisata" is used to describe a condition where the skin tissue has been replaced by fibrous scar tissue, resulting in hair loss.