Alopecia is a medical condition that causes hair loss, which can occur on the scalp or other parts of the body. It can affect people of all ages and genders, and the severity of hair loss can vary widely. The most common type is alopecia areata, an autoimmune disorder where the immune system mistakenly attacks hair follicles. There are several forms of alopecia, including androgenetic alopecia, often referred to as male or female pattern baldness, and telogen effluvium, which is temporary hair shedding due to stress or hormonal changes. Treatment options may include medications, topical therapies, or hair restoration procedures, depending on the type and cause of hair loss.