Alopecia areata
Also known as: Kreisrunder Haarausfall · Spot baldness · Autoimmune alopecia · Canine alopecia areata
Overview
What it is
Alopecia areata is a rare autoimmune skin disorder where a dog's immune system mistakenly targets and attacks its own hair follicles, the tiny structures in the skin that grow hair. This localized attack disrupts normal hair growth but does not impact the dog's internal organs or overall physical health. Because the underlying cause is complex, there are currently no commercial genetic tests available to screen for this condition.
How it presents
Owners will typically notice painless, non-itchy, and often circular bald patches on the dog's head, neck, or torso, while the underlying skin looks completely normal. These symptoms usually first appear in young to middle-aged adult dogs.
Treatment
The condition is primarily cosmetic and often resolves on its own without intervention, though medical treatment is possible if necessary. Depending on whether veterinary monitoring or active therapies are pursued, management costs typically range from 250 to 1200 EUR.
How it's tested
Affected breeds
Treatment cost
Estimated range of typical treatment cost. Actual cost depends on severity, clinic and region.
Frequently asked
What is Alopecia areata?
Alopecia areata is a rare autoimmune skin disorder where a dog's immune system mistakenly targets and attacks its own hair follicles, the tiny structures in the skin that grow hair. This localized attack disrupts normal hair growth but does not impact the dog's internal organs or overall physical health. Because the underlying cause is complex, there are currently no commercial genetic tests available to screen for this condition.
How is Alopecia areata tested?
Various clinical and genetic tests are used depending on the breed and presentation.
Which breeds are most affected?
This condition isn't tied to a specific breed in our database.