Alopecia neurotica is an uncommon medical condition that causes hair loss due to a nerve damage. The spelling of this word is based on the International Phonetic Alphabet (IPA), which is used to represent the sounds of spoken language. In this case, the two syllables are pronounced as "ah-loh-PEE-see-ah" with the stress on the second syllable, while the word "neurotica" is pronounced as "noo-RAH-tee-ka" with the stress on the third syllable. The correct spelling of this medical term is essential for accurate diagnosis and treatment.
Alopecia neurotica, also known as psychogenic alopecia, refers to a form of hair loss that occurs due to psychological or emotional factors rather than a physiological condition. The term "alopecia" is derived from the Greek word "alōpekía" which means hair loss, while "neurotica" refers to the involvement of the nervous system.
This condition is characterized by sudden and excessive hair shedding, resulting in patchy bald spots on the scalp. Unlike other forms of alopecia, such as alopecia areata where the immune system attacks hair follicles, alopecia neurotica is induced by psychological stressors or emotional upsets. It is mainly observed in individuals experiencing significant psychological distress, anxiety, or chronic emotional turmoil.
Alopecia neurotica typically presents with hair loss patterns that coincide with the patient’s emotional triggers, often affecting certain localized areas rather than causing overall thinning of the hair. The hair loss is primarily attributed to a disruption in the hair growth cycle, leading to a premature entry into the resting (telogen) phase and subsequent shedding.
Treatment for alopecia neurotica primarily focuses on addressing the underlying psychological factors contributing to the condition. This may involve counseling, stress management techniques, relaxation therapy, and other strategies to reduce emotional distress. In some cases, medication or psychotherapy may be recommended to alleviate symptoms and promote hair regrowth.
It is important to note that alopecia neurotica is a reversible condition, and with appropriate treatment and resolution of the underlying psychological stressors, hair growth can typically resume within a few months. However, individual response to treatment may vary, and it is advisable to consult with a healthcare professional for proper diagnosis and management of this condition.
A. of trophoneurotic origin.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
The term "alopecia neurotica" is a combination of two words: "alopecia" and "neurotica".
1. Alopecia: The word "alopecia" originated from the Greek word "alōpekia", which refers to a condition characterized by hair loss or baldness. It is derived from the combination of "alōpēx", meaning "fox", and the suffix "-ia", indicating a medical condition or disorder. According to some sources, this term may have been coined due to the observation that foxes can shed large amounts of hair.
2. Neurotica: The word "neurotica" is derived from the Greek word "neurotikos", meaning "of the nerves". It is related to the term "neurosis", which originally referred to a mental disorder characterized by anxiety, phobias, and obsessive behavior.