Ritlecitinib as a Treatment for Severe Alopecia Areata

Course overview

Alopecia areata (AA) is a dermatological disease. It is characterized by non-scarring hair loss from the scalp and/or body, with an unpredictable, variable course. Its etiology is not entirely known, although some evidence suggests that environmental, immunological, and genetic factors may contribute to the disease. Ritlecitinib is a new, FDA-approved medication for the treatment of severe AA in adults and adolescents aged 12 and older. This course reviews ritlecitinib's mechanism of action, prescribing guidelines, and its potential to restore a patient's hair and confidence.