Individualized Homoeopathic Management of Alopecia Areata with Acute Folliculitis in a Middle-aged Female: A Case Report at Dr Batra's

Abstract

Alopecia areata (AA) is a chronic autoimmune disorder characterized by sudden, non-scarring hair loss that may significantly impair psychological well-being and quality of life. Disease onset is frequently associated with emotional stress, while spontaneous progression and recurrence remain unpredictable. Conventional treatment mainly relies on corticosteroids and immunomodulators, which may be associated with recurrence after discontinuation. Homoeopathy emphasizes individualized constitutional prescribing based on the patient's mental, emotional, and physical characteristics.

This case report describes a 37-year-old female who presented with sudden onset patchy hair loss of three months' duration associated with severe diffuse hair fall, enlargement of alopecic patches, pustular lesions, erythema, pain, and mild fever. The patient had experienced marked occupational stress during the preceding year and had received Ayurvedic treatment for two months without satisfactory improvement. Detailed constitutional evaluation revealed an emotionally expressive, oversensitive individual with ailments from domination, desire for company, amelioration from consolation, and work-related stress. Repertorial analysis supported Pulsatilla as the constitutional remedy, while Acidum fluoricum was prescribed during the acute phase.

Progressive hair regrowth was documented clinically and by serial video microscopic (VMS) examination. Complete coverage of the alopecic patch was achieved within four months without the development of new lesions. This case highlights the potential role of individualized homoeopathic treatment in promoting hair regrowth, arresting disease progression, and improving overall quality of life in alopecia areata.