Autoimmune diseases are a complex group of disorders where the body’s immune system mistakenly attacks its own healthy cells and tissues.

While most people are familiar with common autoimmune conditions like rheumatoid arthritis and lupus, there are several lesser-known autoimmune diseases that can have a variety of symptoms, including hair thinning or loss. In this article, we will explore 10 uncommon autoimmune diseases that can lead to hair thinning.

1. Alopecia Areata

Alopecia areata is an autoimmune condition that causes sudden hair loss in round or oval patches. The immune system mistakenly attacks the hair follicles, leading to hair thinning or complete baldness in some cases.

Hair can grow back, but the condition is unpredictable and may recur.

2. Pemphigus Vulgaris

Pemphigus vulgaris is a rare autoimmune disorder characterized by blistering and sores on the skin and mucous membranes. In some cases, hair loss can occur as a result of the immune system attacking the hair follicles.

Treatment typically involves medications to suppress the immune system.

3. Discoid Lupus Erythematosus

Discoid lupus erythematosus (DLE) is a chronic autoimmune disease that primarily affects the skin. It can cause red, scaly patches on the face, scalp, or other body parts.

In some cases, hair loss can occur due to inflammation and scarring of the hair follicles.

4. Sarcoidosis

Sarcoidosis is an autoimmune disease that can affect multiple organs, including the skin. The condition is characterized by the formation of small inflammatory nodules, known as granulomas.

In some cases, sarcoidosis can lead to hair loss due to inflammation and scarring.

5. Hashimoto’s Thyroiditis

Hashimoto’s thyroiditis is an autoimmune disorder that causes inflammation of the thyroid gland.

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While hair thinning is not a primary symptom of this condition, some individuals with Hashimoto’s may experience hair loss as a result of hormonal imbalances and metabolic changes.

6. Sjögren’s Syndrome

Sjögren’s syndrome is an autoimmune disorder that primarily affects the moisture-producing glands, such as the salivary glands and tear glands.

Hair thinning or hair loss can occur as a secondary symptom, often due to nutrient deficiencies or hormonal imbalances associated with the condition.

7. Dermatomyositis

Dermatomyositis is a rare autoimmune disease that primarily affects the muscles and skin. It can cause muscle weakness, skin rashes, and in some cases, hair thinning or loss.

The exact cause of hair loss in dermatomyositis is unknown, but it is believed to be related to the inflammatory processes involved in the condition.

8. Pernicious Anemia

Pernicious anemia is an autoimmune condition where the body is unable to absorb enough vitamin B12. This deficiency can lead to a variety of symptoms, including fatigue, weakness, and hair thinning or loss.

Treatment often involves regular vitamin B12 injections.

9. Vitiligo

Vitiligo is an autoimmune disorder that causes loss of skin color in patches. While not directly related to hair thinning, vitiligo can affect the scalp and lead to the loss of hair color in the affected areas.

10. Polymyalgia Rheumatica

Polymyalgia rheumatica (PMR) is an inflammatory disorder characterized by muscle pain and stiffness. While not typically associated with hair loss, some individuals with PMR may experience gradual hair thinning due to underlying autoimmune mechanisms.

Conclusion

Autoimmune diseases can manifest in various ways and affect different organs and tissues in the body, including the hair follicles.

Hair thinning or loss may occur as a result of the immune system mistakenly attacking the hair follicles in several uncommon autoimmune diseases. If you are experiencing hair thinning or any other unusual symptoms, it is essential to consult with a healthcare professional to determine the underlying cause and receive appropriate treatment.