Alopecia mucinosa
Alopecia Mucinosa
Alopecia mucinosa (pronunciation: al-oh-PEE-shah mew-sin-OH-sah), also known as Follicular Mucinosis, is a rare skin condition characterized by hair loss, or alopecia, and the accumulation of a substance called mucin in hair follicles.
Etymology
The term "Alopecia mucinosa" is derived from two words. "Alopecia" is a Greek word that means "fox disease," referring to a fox's tendency to lose fur. "Mucinosa" is derived from "mucin," a complex glycoprotein that forms a key component of mucus, which is found in abundance in the affected hair follicles in this condition.
Symptoms
The primary symptom of Alopecia mucinosa is hair loss, typically in patches. The skin in these areas may appear reddish or pink and may feel thickened or raised. The condition can affect any part of the body where hair grows, but it most commonly affects the scalp, face, and neck.
Causes
The exact cause of Alopecia mucinosa is unknown. However, it has been associated with certain diseases, including Hodgkin's lymphoma and Non-Hodgkin's lymphoma. It can also occur as an isolated skin condition.
Diagnosis
Diagnosis of Alopecia mucinosa is typically made through a skin biopsy, which involves removing a small sample of skin for examination under a microscope. The presence of mucin in the hair follicles is a key indicator of the condition.
Treatment
Treatment for Alopecia mucinosa may include topical corticosteroids, oral medications, or light therapy. The choice of treatment depends on the severity of the condition and the patient's overall health.
See Also
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Alopecia mucinosa
- Wikipedia's article - Alopecia mucinosa
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