[Hair loss. Causes, diagnosis, clinical manifestations and treatment]

Loss of hair is a common complaint and may lead to psychosocial problems. Even the physiological and mildest forms of alopecia can cause considerable distress, and some degree of dysmorphophobia is experienced in a proportion of the patients. Hair loss may be a benign and transient process, or can be a serious and permanent problem. The majority of hair loss complaints seen in both males and females are caused by androgen-dependent or increased telogen hair shedding. Correct diagnosis is often reached by examining the clinical symptoms and presenting signs. A full explanation and open discussion of psychosocial problems and management of alopecia is advised. Starting to treat the complaint with hair stimulants should be restricted, and must be discussed critically with the patient. The approach should aim at a satisfied patient in the future. The author briefly discusses treatment options.