Alopecia after ileal pouch-anal anastomosis

Severe diffuse hair loss in a young woman after ileal pouch-anal anastomosis prompted a review of the incidence and cause of this complication. Nine (38 percent) of 24 patients undergoing the ileoanal pouch procedure developed hair loss. Clinically apparent hair loss is more likely in females. The cause is probably multifactorial and is unlikely to be related to specific nutritional deficiencies in patients maintaining oral intake of nutrients. Hair loss in the perioperative period is transient and hair growth returns to normal as the patient recovers. Awareness of this problem is important and reassurance of the concerned patient is the appropriate management.