ALOPECIA AREATA: ASPECTOS FISIOLÓGICOS E AVANÇOS TERAPÊUTICOS – UMA REVISÃO DE LITERATURA

This work focused on Alopecia Areata, an autoimmune disease that affects hair follicles, leading to hair loss. The objective was to analyze the physiological aspects of the disease and review the therapeutic advances available in recent scientific literature, with the aim of identifying the most promising treatments. Using the literature review methodology, studies were analyzed on the immunological and genetic mechanisms that contribute to the development of the disease, as well as the main therapies currently used, such as immunosuppressants, corticosteroids and Janus kinase (JAK) inhibitors. The results indicated that, although current therapies show variable efficacy, JAK inhibitors emerge as one of the most promising approaches, although there are still challenges regarding safety and accessibility. Therapeutic innovations, such as the use of stem cells and biological medicines, have also been identified as emerging alternatives, but face barriers related to cost and complexity. The research concluded that a multidisciplinary approach, which integrates clinical treatment with emotional support, is fundamental for the management of Alopecia Areata, improving patients’ quality of life. Finally, the need for more clinical investigations to improve available therapies and explore new alternatives that can offer more effective and accessible treatments is highlighted.