Alopecia neoplastica

From WikiMD's Food, Medicine & Wellness Encyclopedia

Alopecia neoplastica is a type of hair loss that occurs when malignant tumor cells invade the skin and hair follicles. This condition is often associated with breast cancer, but can also occur with other types of cancer.

Causes[edit | edit source]

Alopecia neoplastica is caused by the invasion of malignant tumor cells into the skin and hair follicles. This can occur as a result of metastasis, where cancer cells spread from their original location to other parts of the body. The most common type of cancer associated with alopecia neoplastica is breast cancer, but it can also occur with other types of cancer.

Symptoms[edit | edit source]

The main symptom of alopecia neoplastica is hair loss, which can occur in patches or across the entire scalp. The skin may also appear red and inflamed, and there may be pain or discomfort in the affected area. In some cases, there may also be changes in the texture or color of the hair.

Diagnosis[edit | edit source]

Diagnosis of alopecia neoplastica typically involves a physical examination and a review of the patient's medical history. A biopsy may also be performed to confirm the presence of malignant cells in the skin and hair follicles.

Treatment[edit | edit source]

Treatment for alopecia neoplastica typically involves treating the underlying cancer. This may include chemotherapy, radiation therapy, or surgery. In some cases, treatment may also involve the use of medications to help manage symptoms and improve the health of the skin and hair.

Prognosis[edit | edit source]

The prognosis for alopecia neoplastica depends on the underlying cause and the stage of the cancer at the time of diagnosis. Early detection and treatment can improve the prognosis.

See also[edit | edit source]

Alopecia neoplastica Resources
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