Ophiasis alopecia areata

Ophiasis is a pattern of alopecia areata where hair loss follows a band around the temporal and occipital scalp, often near the hairline at the sides and back. It is important because this pattern can be more persistent and less likely to regrow quickly than small isolated patches. It may be confused with traction alopecia, tinea capitis or scarring alopecia, so examination and sometimes dermoscopy or biopsy may be needed if the diagnosis is uncertain.