Hair Loss (Alopecia) - General (Diffuse and Focal) Differential Diagnosis Algorithm
DIFFUSE
Scarring - Irreversible-biopsy required
• Lupus erythematosus
• Lichen planopilaris
Pattern
• Androgenetic alopecia
Anagen Effluvium
• Chemotherapy
• Loose anagen syndrome
Discrete Patches
• Alopecia totalis (all scalp and facial hair)
• Alopecia universalis (all body hair)
Telogen Effluvium
- Endocrine
• Hypothyroidism
• Hyperthyroidism
• Hypopituitarism
• Post-partum
- Dietary
• Iron deficiency
• Zinc deficiency
• Copper deficiency
• Vitamin A Excess
- Drugs
• Oral contraceptives
• Hyperthyroid drugs
• Anticoagulants
• Lithium
- Stress Related
• Post-infectious
• Post-operative
• Psychological stress
FOCAL / LOCALIZED
Scarring - Irreversible-biopsy required
- Infectious
• Tinea capitis with kerion
• Folliculitis decalvans
- Secondary to Skin Disease
• Discoid lupus erythematosus
• Lichen planopilaris
• Pseudopelade of Brocq
• Alopecia Mucinosa
• Keratosis Follicularis
• Aplasia cutis
Non-Scarring - Reversible
- Broken Hair Shafts
• Tinea capitis
• Trichotillomania
• Traction alopecia
• Congenital hair shaft abnormalities
- Hair Shafts Intact or Absent
• Alopecia areata
• Secondary syphilis
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