**Question:** In alopecia areata, seen is –

A. Complete hair loss
B. Incomplete hair loss
C. Hair loss in specific areas
D. Gradual hair thinning

**Core Concept:** Alopecia areata is a common autoimmune disorder characterized by non-scarring hair loss. In this condition, the immune system mistakenly attacks the hair follicles, leading to hair loss.

**Why the Correct Answer is Right:** In alopecia areata, we typically see complete hair loss (A) due to the specific autoimmune attack on hair follicles. This autoimmune response results in the destruction of hair follicles and the absence of hair growth.

**Why Each Wrong Option is Incorrect:**

B. Incomplete hair loss: While alopecia areata can lead to partial hair loss, the correct answer is A (complete hair loss) because the disease primarily affects large hair follicles, leading to widespread hair loss.

C. Hair loss in specific areas: Alopecia areata can affect hair follicles in any part of the body, not just specific areas. Therefore, this option is incorrect.

D. Gradual hair thinning: Alopecia areata is characterized by sudden, non-scarring hair loss, not gradual thinning. This option is incorrect as it does not accurately represent the typical presentation of the disease.

**Clinical Pearl:** Alopecia areata is a unique autoimmune disorder that presents with sudden, non-scarring hair loss due to the attack on hair follicles by the immune system. It is essential for medical students and practitioners to understand the distinct clinical manifestations and the autoimmune basis of the disease to appropriately diagnose and manage patients with hair loss symptoms.