title: The Need for a Treatment: A Patient's Perspective.
abstract: Alopecia areata is not a life-threatening disease, but it is absolutely life-altering. Alopecia areata can wreak havoc on a person's self-esteem at any age. Since the appearance of my first bald spot more than 35 years ago, millions have been diagnosed with alopecia areata and have had to endure emotional and social difficulties as a result. The scientific community has made tremendous strides in recent years to gain a better understanding of alopecia. Past, current, and planned clinical trials all provide hope to patients and their families that an effective treatment is on the horizon.
authors.affiliation: National Alopecia Areata Foundation, San Rafael, California, USA.
authors.forename: Maria E
authors.initials: ME
authors.lastname: Beckett
mesh_terms: D000293:Adolescent; D000328:Adult; D000506:Alopecia Areata / Q000523:psychology* / Q000628:therapy; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008875:Middle Aged; D012649:Self Concept; D058992:Social Participation; D055815:Young Adult