Complete Guide to Alopecia - Types, Diganosis and Treatment Options

• The most common form of alopecia affecting around 50% of men by the time they reach the age of 50
• It is hereditary and thought to be associated with having an excess of a particular hormone, which affects hair follicles
• Hairline typically recedes, and the hair becomes thin
• Hair loss usually begins in the late 20’s or early 30’s.

1. Minoxidil (Rogaine)
2. Spironolactone (Aldactone), a diuretic that blocks androgen production
3. Platelet-Rich Plasma Treatment
4. Hair Transplant

• This Androgenetic Alopecia affects women.
• It is similar to male pattern baldness, except that women can lose their hair in a different pattern than men. 
• Hair loss in women is common, especially with age.
• Up to two-thirds of women experience hair loss after menopause.

• Minoxidil (Rogaine)
• Finasteride
• Platelet-Rich Plasma Treatment
• Hair Transplant

Scarring Alopecia

Hair loss due to scarring of the scalp is called scarring alopecia. Scarring can be due to a variety of causes. Traction alopecia over a period of time may lead to scarring and permanent hair loss. Similarly, trichotillomania (compulsive hair-plucking) can cause permanent scalp scarring over time. Injury to the scalp caused by physical trauma or burns may leave permanent scars and permanent hair loss. Diseases that may cause permanent hair loss due to scalp scarring include:

1. Auto-immune conditions- lupus erythematosus and scleroderma
2. Bacterial infections such as folliculitis, fungal infections, and viral infections such as shingles (Herpes Zoster).

A form of scarring alopecia may also occur in post-menopausal women, associated with hair follicles’ inflammation and subsequent scarring.

• Hair follicles are replaced with scar tissue (hence the name)
• In some cases, hair loss is without symptoms and can go unnoticed for long periods
• In other cases, hair loss is accompanied by burning, itching, and pain and is more progressive
• It can occur in men and women of all ages
• Lichen Planopilaris (one of the more well-known Scarring Alopecia) results in inflammation around affected hair follicles. It mostly affects middle-aged adults as distinct patches of hair loss.

Scarring alopecia, also known as cicatricial alopecia, is a type of hair loss characterized by permanent damage to hair follicles and the replacement of hair-bearing tissue with scar tissue. Its causes and risk factors can vary depending on the specific subtype of scarring alopecia, but common factors include:

Early diagnosis and prompt treatment are crucial to prevent further hair loss in cases of scarring alopecia, as hair follicles cannot regenerate once they are replaced by scar tissue.

• Medical treatments (such as corticosteroids, topical creams, and injections) are available to limit

The progression of Scarring Alopecia. Results are case-specific and are not guaranteed.

Alopecia Areata

This type of alopecia occurs as round or oval hair loss patches, most obvious on the scalp or in the eyebrows. Those who develop these round or oval hair loss areas can progress to total scalp hair loss (Alopecia Totalis). The cause of Alopecia Areata is unknown but commonly believed to be an auto-immune disorder. The most common treatment is steroids (cortisone is one form), either topically or by injection.

• People with this type of alopecia experience sudden or sometimes unrecognized falling out of hair in patches or spots
• Patches can vary in size from 1/8 inch to 4 inches in diameter; the affected areas are usually lighter in color due to inadequate blood supply to the area

Causes

Alopecia areata is an autoimmune disorder that causes hair loss, often in small, round patches on the scalp, although it can affect other body hair as well. The exact cause is not fully understood, but it is believed to involve a combination of genetic, environmental, and immune system factors. Risk factors and triggers include:

• Steroids
• Immunotherapy entails deliberately inducing an allergic response that triggers the growth of hair in bald areas.

Alopecia Totalis

This refers to cases in which the scalp incurs complete hair loss. In an estimated 30% of patients, total hair loss occurs within six months after the disease’s onset.

It is an auto-immune disorder resulting in total hair loss, but on the scalp only. It is a condition intermediary between Alopecia Areata and Alopecia Universalis. Alopecia Totalis generally shows up in two types, the first being a relatively quick and complete hair loss in the head and the second being a slower type, which starts as a patchy loss (Alopecia Areata) and progresses to total hair loss in the scalp.

• Starts with small, round patches of hair loss and progresses until there is total scalp hair lossy
• The disease may at times lead to complete baldness of the scalp
• Alopecia Totalis is usually resistant to therapy.

Alopecia totalis is a severe subtype of alopecia areata characterised by complete hair loss on the scalp.

While the precise cause remains uncertain, it is generally attributed to autoimmune factors and genetic predisposition. Risk factors for alopecia totalis include:

• Autoimmune Factors: The condition is thought to result from an autoimmune response, where the immune system mistakenly attacks hair follicles.
• Genetics: A family history of alopecia areata or alopecia totalis increases the risk, suggesting a genetic component.
• Immune System Dysregulation: Abnormalities in the immune system, particularly involving T-cells, may contribute to the development of alopecia totalis.
• Stress: Emotional or physical stressors can exacerbate autoimmune responses, potentially triggering hair loss.
• Infections: Certain infections may be linked to the onset of alopecia totalis, although the relationship is not fully understood.
• Environmental Factors: Exposure to environmental triggers, such as toxins or allergens, may play a role.

Consulting with a dermatologist is essential for accurate diagnosis and tailored treatment plans.

• No reliable medical treatment; some medications that may work include Diphenylcyclopropenone, which is a topical drug that has been successful in treating Areata
• Hair Replacement Systems

Alopecia Universalis

This is the most advanced and rare type of alopecia in which there is a complete loss of hair all over the body.

• All body hair is lost.
• Areas like the nasal cavity, eyes, and scalp become very exposed to germs and microorganisms.
• People suffering from this condition need to guard themselves against sun exposure, bacteria, dust, etc.

Alopecia universalis is an extreme form of alopecia areata, an autoimmune condition where the immune system mistakenly attacks hair follicles, resulting in hair loss. In alopecia universalis, hair loss extends to the entire body, including eyebrows, eyelashes, and body hair.

The exact causes remain unclear, but several factors and risk factors are associated with its development:

• Autoimmune Factors: Alopecia universalis is primarily autoimmune in nature, suggesting a genetic predisposition. A family history of autoimmune disorders, like rheumatoid arthritis or type 1 diabetes, increases the risk.
• Genetics: Certain genetic markers are linked to a higher susceptibility to alopecia areata, including its universal form.
• Stress: Emotional or physical stress can trigger or exacerbate autoimmune responses, potentially contributing to alopecia universalis.
• Infections: Viral or bacterial infections may play a role in activating the autoimmune response that leads to hair loss.
• Immune System Abnormalities: Dysregulation of the immune system, specifically T-cells, is believed to be a key factor.
• Hormonal Changes: Hormonal fluctuations, particularly during puberty, pregnancy, or menopause, can influence the development of alopecia universalis.
• Environmental Factors: Exposure to certain environmental triggers, such as chemicals or allergens, may contribute to the onset of this condition.
• Medications: Some medications, particularly those affecting the immune system, can trigger alopecia universalis as a side effect.

It's important to note that alopecia universalis is a complex condition with a multifactorial aetiology. Treatment options, including corticosteroids, immunosuppressive therapies, and topical medications, aim to manage the autoimmune response and stimulate hair regrowth, but results can vary among individuals. Consultation with a dermatologist or immunologist is crucial for proper diagnosis and personalised treatment.

• There is no known cure for Alopecia Universalis. Intralesional Corticosteroid injections may help.
• The Hair Replacement System is the only option.

Diffuse Alopecia

Diffuse alopecia – also known as Alopecia Areata Incognita, is a rare form of alopecia and affects primarily young males, and the hair loss on the head is radical and sudden.

Diffuse alopecia, a condition characterised by widespread hair thinning or hair loss across the scalp can result from various underlying causes and risk factors. Understanding these factors is essential for effective diagnosis and management.

• Telogen Effluvium: One common cause of diffuse alopecia is telogen effluvium, where an increased number of hair follicles enter the resting (telogen) phase prematurely due to physical or emotional stress, illness, surgery, or significant weight loss.
• Androgenetic Alopecia: Diffuse hair loss can also be an atypical presentation of androgenetic alopecia (male or female pattern baldness). Genetic factors, hormonal imbalances, and age contribute to this condition.
• Medical Conditions: Underlying medical conditions such as thyroid disorders (hypothyroidism or hyperthyroidism), autoimmune diseases (e.g., lupus), and nutritional deficiencies (iron, zinc, and biotin) can lead to diffuse alopecia.
• Medications: Certain medications, including chemotherapy drugs, anticoagulants, and retinoids, are known to cause hair loss as a side effect.
• Diet and Lifestyle: Poor nutrition, crash diets, or extreme weight loss can lead to diffuse hair thinning. Smoking and excessive alcohol consumption may also contribute.
• Hair Care Practices: Excessive use of heat styling tools, harsh hair treatments, tight hairstyles (traction alopecia), or frequent use of chemical products can damage hair follicles, leading to diffuse alopecia.
• Stress: Chronic stress and anxiety can disrupt the hair growth cycle, contributing to diffuse hair loss.
• Hormonal Changes: Hormonal fluctuations during pregnancy, postpartum, menopause, or the discontinuation of birth control pills can trigger diffuse alopecia.

Identifying the specific cause of diffuse alopecia requires a thorough medical evaluation by a healthcare professional. Once the underlying factor is determined, appropriate treatment or management strategies, such as addressing the root cause, dietary changes, or medical therapies, can be implemented to help restore hair health.

• Finasteride
• Platelet-Rich Plasma Treatment
• Low-Level Laser Treatment

Telogen Effluvium

When hair follicles are pushed prematurely in the hair growth cycle’s resting stage, the resulting hair loss is categorized as Telogen Effluvium.

• Form of hair loss where more hair than usual falls out, causing the hair to thin in general rather than in patches
• Head hair does feel thinner, but complete hair loss is unlikely. Other parts of the body are generally not affected.
• Condition is temporary, and the hair does start growing back after around six months in most cases
• Telogen effluvium can be caused by the following:
  • Extreme emotional or physical stress
  • Intense physical stress
  • Hormonal changes
  • Chronic diseases such as cancer
  • Dietary changes or crash dieting
  • Severe infection
  • Certain medications

Telogen effluvium is a temporary and diffuse hair loss condition characterised by a significant shedding of hair. Several risk factors can trigger telogen effluvium, including severe stressors like physical trauma, surgery, or emotional stress. Medical conditions such as thyroid disorders, anaemia, and chronic illnesses can also contribute to this hair loss condition. Nutritional deficiencies, crash diets, and rapid weight loss are additional risk factors. Medications, particularly those causing side effects like hair loss, are common culprits. Hormonal changes due to childbirth, menopause, or stopping birth control pills can trigger telogen effluvium as well. Identifying and addressing the underlying cause is key to managing this condition effectively.

• Minoxidil
• Platelet-Rich Plasma Treatment
• High Protein Diet
• Complete Hair Growth Supplements with a blend of biotin, vitamin C, zinc, iron, marine extracts.

Traction Alopecia

This alopecia is usually caused due to excessive pulling or tension on hair shafts as a result of certain hairstyles.

• The most common balding disorder among young women and girls with highly textured hair.
• Baldness occurs when the hair is pulled too tight and is pulled out of the follicle, taking out the hair root and the bulb.
• Destroying the hair shaft may cause white bumps and pus, or scaling may occur around the affected area.

The most common risk factor is tight hairstyles such as braids, cornrows, weaves, and tight ponytails. Excessive use of hair extensions and hair accessories that pull on the hair can also lead to traction alopecia. Frequent use of hot styling tools, chemical treatments, and improper hair care practices can weaken the hair shaft, making it more susceptible to damage. Additionally, individuals with naturally fine or fragile hair are at a higher risk of developing traction alopecia. Proper hair care and avoiding tight hairstyles are essential to prevent this condition.

• Hair transplant is the only permanent solution.

Triangular Alopecia

Triangular alopecia, also known as temporal triangular alopecia or congenital triangular alopecia, is a rare and non-scarring form of hair loss that typically occurs in a well-defined triangular or oval-shaped area near the temples or frontal hairline. This condition primarily affects children and young adults but can persist into adulthood. While the exact cause of triangular alopecia remains unclear, it is believed to be a genetic disorder, as it often runs in families.

Loss of hair occurs in the temporal areas that sometimes begin in childhood. Hair loss may be complete, or a few fine, thin diameter hairs may remain. The cause of Triangular Alopecia is not known, but the condition can be treated medically or surgically.

Risk factors for triangular alopecia include a family history of the condition and the presence of other hair or scalp abnormalities. Clinical progression of this condition usually begins in childhood, with hair thinning or bald patches appearing near the temples. Over time, the affected area may expand, leading to more noticeable hair loss.

Treatment options for triangular alopecia are limited, and many individuals may choose to manage the condition with hairstyling techniques or hairpieces to conceal the affected area. In some cases, topical medications like minoxidil or hair transplantation may be considered to stimulate hair growth. Consulting a dermatologist can provide personalised guidance on managing triangular alopecia.