Ophiasis: Difference between revisions
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{{Infobox medical condition | |||
| name = Ophiasis | |||
| synonyms = | |||
| pronunciation = | |||
| specialty = [[Dermatology]] | |||
| symptoms = [[Hair loss]] in a wave-like pattern around the scalp | |||
| complications = | |||
| onset = | |||
| duration = | |||
| types = | |||
| causes = [[Autoimmune disease]] | |||
| risks = | |||
| diagnosis = [[Clinical diagnosis]] | |||
| differential = [[Tinea capitis]], [[Trichotillomania]] | |||
| prevention = | |||
| treatment = [[Corticosteroids]], [[Topical immunotherapy]] | |||
| medication = | |||
| prognosis = Variable | |||
| frequency = | |||
}} | |||
'''Ophiasis''' is a specific pattern of [[alopecia areata]], a type of [[hair loss]], that primarily affects the sides and lower back of the scalp. The term "ophiasis" comes from the Greek word "ophis" meaning snake, as the pattern of hair loss can resemble the shape of a snake. | '''Ophiasis''' is a specific pattern of [[alopecia areata]], a type of [[hair loss]], that primarily affects the sides and lower back of the scalp. The term "ophiasis" comes from the Greek word "ophis" meaning snake, as the pattern of hair loss can resemble the shape of a snake. | ||
== Causes == | == Causes == | ||
The exact cause of ophiasis is unknown, but it is believed to be an [[autoimmune disease]] where the body's immune system attacks the hair follicles. This can be triggered by a variety of factors, including stress, illness, or hormonal changes. | The exact cause of ophiasis is unknown, but it is believed to be an [[autoimmune disease]] where the body's immune system attacks the hair follicles. This can be triggered by a variety of factors, including stress, illness, or hormonal changes. | ||
== Symptoms == | == Symptoms == | ||
The main symptom of ophiasis is hair loss in a band-like pattern around the sides and back of the scalp. The hair loss can be sudden or gradual, and the amount of hair loss can vary from person to person. Some people may also experience itching or discomfort in the affected area. | The main symptom of ophiasis is hair loss in a band-like pattern around the sides and back of the scalp. The hair loss can be sudden or gradual, and the amount of hair loss can vary from person to person. Some people may also experience itching or discomfort in the affected area. | ||
== Diagnosis == | == Diagnosis == | ||
Ophiasis is typically diagnosed by a [[dermatologist]] through a physical examination of the scalp. In some cases, a skin biopsy may be performed to confirm the diagnosis and rule out other causes of hair loss. | Ophiasis is typically diagnosed by a [[dermatologist]] through a physical examination of the scalp. In some cases, a skin biopsy may be performed to confirm the diagnosis and rule out other causes of hair loss. | ||
== Treatment == | == Treatment == | ||
Treatment for ophiasis can be challenging, as the condition is often resistant to therapy. Treatment options may include topical corticosteroids, minoxidil, anthralin, or immunotherapy. In some cases, a combination of treatments may be used. | Treatment for ophiasis can be challenging, as the condition is often resistant to therapy. Treatment options may include topical corticosteroids, minoxidil, anthralin, or immunotherapy. In some cases, a combination of treatments may be used. | ||
== Prognosis == | == Prognosis == | ||
The prognosis for ophiasis varies widely. Some people may experience complete hair regrowth, while others may have persistent hair loss. The condition can also recur in some individuals. | The prognosis for ophiasis varies widely. Some people may experience complete hair regrowth, while others may have persistent hair loss. The condition can also recur in some individuals. | ||
== See also == | == See also == | ||
* [[Alopecia areata]] | * [[Alopecia areata]] | ||
* [[Autoimmune disease]] | * [[Autoimmune disease]] | ||
* [[Dermatology]] | * [[Dermatology]] | ||
[[Category:Skin conditions]] | [[Category:Skin conditions]] | ||
[[Category:Hair disorders]] | [[Category:Hair disorders]] | ||
[[Category:Autoimmune diseases]] | [[Category:Autoimmune diseases]] | ||
{{stub}} | {{stub}} | ||
{{No image}} | {{No image}} | ||
Latest revision as of 00:45, 4 April 2025
| Ophiasis | |
|---|---|
| Synonyms | |
| Pronounce | N/A |
| Specialty | Dermatology |
| Symptoms | Hair loss in a wave-like pattern around the scalp |
| Complications | |
| Onset | |
| Duration | |
| Types | |
| Causes | Autoimmune disease |
| Risks | |
| Diagnosis | Clinical diagnosis |
| Differential diagnosis | Tinea capitis, Trichotillomania |
| Prevention | |
| Treatment | Corticosteroids, Topical immunotherapy |
| Medication | |
| Prognosis | Variable |
| Frequency | |
| Deaths | N/A |
Ophiasis is a specific pattern of alopecia areata, a type of hair loss, that primarily affects the sides and lower back of the scalp. The term "ophiasis" comes from the Greek word "ophis" meaning snake, as the pattern of hair loss can resemble the shape of a snake.
Causes[edit]
The exact cause of ophiasis is unknown, but it is believed to be an autoimmune disease where the body's immune system attacks the hair follicles. This can be triggered by a variety of factors, including stress, illness, or hormonal changes.
Symptoms[edit]
The main symptom of ophiasis is hair loss in a band-like pattern around the sides and back of the scalp. The hair loss can be sudden or gradual, and the amount of hair loss can vary from person to person. Some people may also experience itching or discomfort in the affected area.
Diagnosis[edit]
Ophiasis is typically diagnosed by a dermatologist through a physical examination of the scalp. In some cases, a skin biopsy may be performed to confirm the diagnosis and rule out other causes of hair loss.
Treatment[edit]
Treatment for ophiasis can be challenging, as the condition is often resistant to therapy. Treatment options may include topical corticosteroids, minoxidil, anthralin, or immunotherapy. In some cases, a combination of treatments may be used.
Prognosis[edit]
The prognosis for ophiasis varies widely. Some people may experience complete hair regrowth, while others may have persistent hair loss. The condition can also recur in some individuals.


