Telogen effluvium

Telogen Effluvium

A child suffering from malnutrition, a potential cause of telogen effluvium.

Telogen effluvium is a form of hair loss characterized by the shedding of hair due to a disruption in the normal hair growth cycle. It is one of the most common types of alopecia and is often temporary.

Pathophysiology

The human hair growth cycle consists of three phases: the anagen phase (growth phase), the catagen phase (transitional phase), and the telogen phase (resting phase). In telogen effluvium, a significant number of hair follicles prematurely enter the telogen phase, leading to increased hair shedding.

Causes

Telogen effluvium can be triggered by various factors, including:

• Physical or emotional stress: Events such as surgery, childbirth, or severe psychological stress can precipitate telogen effluvium.
• Nutritional deficiencies: Lack of essential nutrients, such as iron deficiency or protein malnutrition, can lead to hair loss. The image depicts a malnourished child, highlighting the impact of nutritional deficiencies on hair health.
• Hormonal changes: Conditions like thyroid disorders or changes in hormonal levels can affect hair growth.
• Medications: Certain drugs, including anticoagulants and retinoids, may induce telogen effluvium.
• Illness: Severe infections or chronic illnesses can disrupt the hair growth cycle.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of telogen effluvium is primarily clinical, based on the patient's history and physical examination. A hair pull test may be performed, where gentle traction is applied to a group of hairs to assess the degree of shedding. In some cases, a scalp biopsy may be necessary to confirm the diagnosis.

Treatment

Treatment of telogen effluvium focuses on addressing the underlying cause. Once the trigger is identified and managed, hair growth typically resumes within 3 to 6 months. Supportive care, such as maintaining a balanced diet and reducing stress, can aid in recovery.

Prognosis

The prognosis for telogen effluvium is generally favorable, as it is often a self-limiting condition. Most individuals experience full regrowth of hair, although the time frame can vary depending on the cause and individual response.

Related Pages

• Alopecia
• Hair loss
• Anagen effluvium
• Nutritional deficiencies