Correlation Between COVID-19 and Telogen Effluvium and Its Social Impacts
May 2022
Telogen Effluvium diffuse alopecia pro-inflammatory cytokines hair follicles hair cycle trichology trichogram phototrichogram Minoxidil vasodilator anagen phase telogen phase nutritional deficiencies hormonal changes autoimmune diseases protein-rich diet nutrient supplementation TE hair loss hair fall Rogaine
TLDR COVID-19 may be linked to hair loss called Telogen Effluvium, affecting quality of life and self-esteem.
The document discusses the correlation between COVID-19 and Telogen Effluvium (TE), a type of diffuse alopecia that typically begins 60 to 90 days after infection and can last up to 6 months. The condition is believed to be caused by the release of pro-inflammatory cytokines and altered anticoagulation mechanisms that can damage hair follicles, as well as stress-induced changes in the hair cycle. The study conducted a qualitative integrative literature review using databases like Google Scholar and PubMed, with articles published in 2020, 2021, and 2022, focusing on trichology. Diagnosis of TE involves ruling out other causes such as nutritional deficiencies, hormonal changes, and autoimmune diseases, with specific hair fall tests like trichogram and phototrichogram helping to determine the hair cycle phase. Treatment recommended by dermatologists ranges from frequent hair washing to accelerate recovery to addressing the underlying cause and socioemotional complications, with a protein-rich diet and nutrient supplementation. Topical solutions like Minoxidil, which acts as a vasodilator to prolong the anagen phase and shorten the telogen phase, are also recommended. The study suggests a possible correlation between TE and COVID-19 due to inflammatory and emotional factors caused by the pandemic, emphasizing the importance of medical treatment to maintain quality of life and self-esteem, especially in women who are more affected.
