Dermoscopic Findings in Radiation-Induced Alopecia After Angioembolization
January 2014
in “
Dermatology
”
New to Alopecia Areata? There is a guide in the encyclopedia. Read the guide → radiation-induced alopecia angioembolization non-scarring alopecia dermoscopic examination alopecia areata yellow dots black dots short vellus hair catagen hairs telogen hairs histopathology hair regrowth permanent alopecia radiation exposures protective treatments hair loss radiation hair loss scalp examination
Studysummary This study reported that alopecic lesions after radiation exposure during angioembolization share dermoscopic features with alopecia areata, highlighting the importance of accurate patient history to avoid misdiagnosis. Our plain-language summary of this paper — not a Tressless recommendation.
The study investigated 10 patients who developed non-scarring alopecia after angioembolization, with a mean age of 55 years and a male to female ratio of 1:4. Dermoscopic examination showed findings similar to alopecia areata, such as yellow and black dots in 60% of patients, short vellus hair in 50%, and other signs in smaller percentages. However, histopathology indicated increased catagen and telogen hairs without significant inflammation. Most patients experienced complete hair regrowth within 3-4 months, except one with permanent alopecia due to multiple radiation exposures. The study emphasized the importance of patient history to avoid misdiagnosis, as radiation-induced alopecia has a self-resolving nature, unlike alopecia areata, which requires different treatment. The document also mentioned research on protective treatments against radiation-induced alopecia.
