18 year old girl with circumscribed bald patch with no organic disease & no behavioural disorder has –
**Core Concept**
Alopecia areata is an autoimmune disease characterized by circumscribed non-scarring hair loss due to the immune system attacking the hair follicles. The pathophysiology involves a complex interplay between genetic and environmental factors, leading to the activation of autoreactive T-lymphocytes that target the hair follicle.
**Why the Correct Answer is Right**
The condition is often associated with other autoimmune diseases, such as thyroiditis, vitiligo, and type 1 diabetes. The diagnosis is typically made based on clinical examination and ruled out by the absence of organic disease and behavioral disorder. The presence of a circumscribed bald patch is a hallmark feature of alopecia areata.
**Why Each Wrong Option is Incorrect**
* **Option A:** This is incorrect because it does not accurately describe the clinical presentation of alopecia areata.
* **Option B:** This is incorrect because it is not a common cause of non-scarring hair loss in an 18-year-old girl.
* **Option C:** This is incorrect because it does not accurately describe the pathophysiology of alopecia areata.
**Clinical Pearl / High-Yield Fact**
Alopecia areata often affects multiple family members, suggesting a strong genetic predisposition. The condition is also associated with other autoimmune diseases, making a thorough medical history and examination crucial for diagnosis.
**Correct Answer: D. Alopecia areata.**