Consult an immunologist for persistent cases

What to Do

If alopecia areata is extensive, rapidly progressing, or not responding to dermatologic treatments, ask for a referral to an immunologist. This is especially important if you have other autoimmune conditions (thyroid disease, vitiligo, lupus).

Why It Works

Alopecia areata is fundamentally an autoimmune condition. An immunologist can evaluate your broader immune profile, check for co-existing autoimmune conditions, and consider systemic immunomodulatory therapies that a general dermatologist may not offer.

Tips

• About 20-25% of alopecia areata patients have another autoimmune condition
• Bring your full treatment history and any lab results
• Newer treatments like JAK inhibitors are often managed jointly between dermatology and immunology