Description

Alopecia areata is an autoimmune condition that causes the immune system to mistakenly attack hair follicles, resulting in hair loss—often in small, round patches about the size of a quarter. While some individuals experience only mild, localized hair loss, others may face more widespread thinning or complete loss. Hair may regrow spontaneously, but recurrence is common.

This condition is believed to result from a complex interaction of genetics, immune dysfunction, stress, and associated autoimmune disorders. Hair loss may appear suddenly and can be preceded by sensations like itching, tingling, or burning in the affected area. Fortunately, because the follicles remain intact, regrowth is possible once inflammation is reduced.

Why You Should Test

This specialized blood panel investigates key biomarkers to help identify underlying causes of hair loss, including:

  • Autoimmune activity
  • Nutritional deficiencies
  • Thyroid dysfunction
  • Hormonal imbalances

Identifying these factors can guide more targeted treatment strategies and improve the likelihood of hair regrowth and long-term management.

Biomarkers Included in This Panel

ANA Screen, IFA with Reflex to Titer and Pattern

  • Purpose: Screens for autoimmune activity
  • Why it Matters: A positive ANA result can indicate autoimmune involvement, which may be contributing to hair follicle inflammation.

Complete Blood Count (CBC) with Differential and Platelets

  • Purpose: Evaluates red and white blood cells and platelets
  • Why it Matters: Helps detect signs of anemia, infection, or inflammation, which may be contributing to hair loss.

Ferritin

  • Purpose: Measures iron storage in the body
  • Why it Matters: Low ferritin (even in the absence of anemia) is a common cause of hair shedding and thinning, particularly in women.

Erythrocyte Sedimentation Rate (ESR)

  • Purpose: Assesses inflammation
  • Why it Matters: Elevated ESR may suggest chronic inflammation or autoimmune processes contributing to hair loss.

Testosterone, Total

  • Purpose: Evaluates androgen hormone levels
  • Why it Matters: Elevated testosterone or androgen sensitivity can cause thinning hair, especially in conditions like polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) or male-pattern baldness.

Thyroid-Stimulating Hormone (TSH)

  • Purpose: Screens for thyroid function
  • Why it Matters: Both hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism are linked to hair loss; TSH testing is essential to rule out or manage thyroid-related issues.

Fasting Requirement

Fasting is not required for this test panel. You can complete the test at your convenience without altering your dietary routine.

Conclusion

The Alopecia Areata Blood Panel offers a comprehensive look at the possible biological contributors to hair loss. By evaluating autoimmune markers, hormone levels, nutrient status, and thyroid function, this panel supports early diagnosis and personalized treatment planning. If you're experiencing unexplained hair loss, this test can be an essential step toward understanding the underlying cause and taking control of your hair and health.