Hair loss is a problem for men and women. There are many causes for hair loss and determining the cause is the first step to formulating a treatment plan. The most common cause of hair loss in both men and women is termed androgenic or androgenetic alopecia. As suggested by the name, this type of hair loss is related to genetics. Unfortunately there are many different genes related to hair loss and not all of them have been completely identified. Hair loss can come with a person’s mother or father or either side’s relatives. The pattern of loss in men due to androgenic alopecia is rather well defined and easy to identify. In women, although they can suffer from androgenic alopecia, the pattern of hair loss is not as well defined. In some cases, further testing in women is necessary to determine if the hair loss is due to a medical cause which should be treated.
Alopecia areata is the second most common reason for hair loss. Alopecia areata will generally resolve within six months to a year. Should it persist for longer, the chance of recovery is minimal. The condition will recur in approximately one third of patients. Medical conditions including thyroid abnormalities, vitiligo, and pernicious anemia can accompany alopecia areata. In addition to diagnosing and treating any accompanying medical conditions, medications can be used to treat the hair loss. These medications include steroids and other immunomodulators. Topical, subcutaneous injections, or system medications may be used alone or in combination. One study even suggested hypnotherapy as a successful treatment for alopecia areata. Unfortunately some patients end up resorting to hairpieces or other methods of covering the hair loss because of severe cases not responsive to therapy.
Fungal infections of the scalp can cause hair loss in prepubertal patients. Diagnosis of fungal infection is made with a potassium hydroxide slide under a microscope or culture of the fungus which can take quite some time. Once the diagnosis is made, antifungal medications either by mouth and/or applied to the scalp are used to treat the infections.
Certain infections can cause hair loss. Children may have hair loss caused by a fungal infection of the scalp. The infection is easily treated with antifungal medicines. Hair loss may occur as part of an underlying disease, such as lupus or diabetes. Since hair loss may be an early sign of a disease, it is important to find the cause so that it can be treated.
The first step in hair loss treatment is identifying the cause. There are many causes of hair loss. Evaluation involves first visiting with a family physician, dermatologist, or hair loss physician. Though some causes can be easily diagnosed with a simple history and physical examination, some causes of hair loss require additional biopsies, blood work, or sometimes cultures to determine the cause. Once a cause or diagnosis is made, a treatment plan can be undertaken. In some cases, treatment is aimed at slowing or preventing further loss while other plans are aimed at replacing hair which has been lost.
For more information about hair transplant cost or male pattern hair loss visit Dr. Verret’s web site today or call for a consultation 972.608.0100.