@article {Kalabokes:December 2001:1396-0296:340,
	author = "Kalabokes, Victoria",
	author = "Besta, Renee M.",
	title = "The role of the National Alopecia Areata Foundation in the management of alopecia areata",
	journal = "Dermatologic Therapy",
	volume = "14",
	year = "December 2001",
	abstract = "Like a mysterious thief in the night, alopecia areata (AA) suddenly appears without warning—seemingly without rhyme or reason—randomly robbing the hair and subsequently the self-esteem of those affected. Very persuasive scientific evidence now suggests that AA is a T-lymphocyte-mediated autoimmune disease directed against an as yet unidentified hair follicle autoantigen in genetically susceptible individuals. The severity of the clinical phenotypes seen in AA run the gamut from patchy hair loss localized in one or more areas, to total scalp hair loss [alopecia totalis (AT)], to complete body hair loss [alopecia universalis (AU)]. Although not life threatening, AA is most certainly life altering, and its sudden onset, recurrent episodes, and highly unpredictable course have a profound psychological impact on the lives of those with the disease. There are a limited number of therapeutic agents available to treat AA. Responses vary widely and the hard fact remains that any treatment, no matter how successful, does not alter the ultimate course of this capricious and recalcitrant disease. Founded in 1981 to meet the challenges of AA and mollify the deep emotional pain inflicted by this disease, the National Alopecia Areata Foundation (NAAF) now serves as the world center of information and hope for those with AA. The foundation plays a crucial role in the management of AA by encouraging and funding medical research for better treatment and an ultimate cure, by providing support and resources for those with the condition, and by raising public awareness of the disease.",
	pages = "340-344(5)",
	url = "http://www.ingentaconnect.com/content/bsc/dth/2001/00000014/00000004/art00008"
	doi = "doi:10.1046/j.1529-8019.2001.01042.x"
}