Although a specific etiology remains undetermined, most evidence points to an autoimmune pathogenesis for alopecia areata. Treatments for alopecia areata are likely to remain palliative until its etiology is better understood. Even it prolonged remissions cannot always be achieved with the treatments presently available, preservation of hair regrowth with maintenance therapy is a reasonable goal. When this is not possible, the value of supportive interaction with patient and family should not be minimized, as the psychologic effects of the disease can be great. Support groups such as those sponsored by the Alopecia Areata Foundation cna assist the physician in this endeavor.