Dermoscopic Findings in Radiation-Induced Alopecia After Angioembolization

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.