Alopecia is an autoimmune disorder that causes hair loss, which occurs when the immune system attacks hair follicles, leading to hair loss on the scalp and other areas of the body. 

It is believed that it is caused by a combination of genetic susceptibility and environmental triggers, such as viral or bacterial infections, stress, or exposure to certain toxins.

Individuals with a family history of alopecia or other autoimmune disorders are at higher risk of developing the condition.