Alopecia neuritica is a medical condition characterized by hair loss due to nerve damage. The term is spelled as /æ.ləˈpi.ʃə njuːˈrɪtɪkə/ in IPA phonetic transcription. The first part, "alopecia," is pronounced with the short "a" sound and stresses on the second syllable. Meanwhile, "neuritica" is pronounced with the long "u" sound and stresses on the third syllable. This condition can be caused by various factors, including infections or chemical exposure. Seeking medical attention is crucial for proper diagnosis and treatment.
Alopecia neuritica is a medical term used to describe a condition characterized by hair loss as a result of nerve inflammation or damage. The word "alopecia" refers to the partial or complete loss of hair on the scalp or body, whereas "neuritica" relates to nerve inflammation.
This condition specifically occurs when the nerves responsible for hair growth undergo inflammation or damage, which interferes with the regular hair growth cycle. Hair may begin to thin, resulting in patches of hair loss, or in severe cases, all the hair on the scalp and body may be lost.
The causes of alopecia neuritica can vary, and they may include autoimmune disorders such as systemic lupus erythematosus, viral infections like herpes zoster, or trauma to the nerves. In some cases, certain medications or toxins can lead to this condition.
The symptoms of alopecia neuritica typically present as sudden hair loss, a noticeable thinning of the hair, or the development of bald patches. While the hair follicles may be damaged, they are typically not destroyed, allowing the potential for regrowth once the underlying inflammation or damage is resolved.
Treatment options for alopecia neuritica may include addressing the underlying cause, if known, and may involve a combination of medication, physical therapy, or surgical interventions. It is important for individuals experiencing symptoms of this condition to consult a healthcare professional for accurate diagnosis and treatment recommendations.
A. localis.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
The term "alopecia neuritica" is a combination of two words: "alopecia" and "neuritica".
1) "Alopecia" comes from the Ancient Greek word "alōpēx" meaning "fox". It was originally used to describe hair loss in foxes due to mange. Over time, the term was adopted in medicine to refer to the loss of hair on the scalp or body in humans.
2) "Neuritica" is derived from the Greek word "neuritis", which refers to inflammation of nerves. It comes from the Greek word "neuron", meaning "nerve".
Therefore, "alopecia neuritica" combines "alopecia" and "neuritica" to describe a condition characterized by hair loss and related to nerve inflammation.