Growth Hormone-Responsive Alopecia in Dogs

The document reviewed growth hormone-responsive alopecia in dogs, particularly in breeds like Alaskan Malamutes, Chow Chows, and Poodles. Initially linked to adult-onset growth hormone deficiency, this hypothesis was questioned as many affected dogs had normal growth hormone levels. Other hormonal imbalances were also investigated but did not consistently explain the condition. Treatments like melatonin and mitotane showed partial success, but the exact mechanism remained unclear. The condition, also known as alopecia X, appeared complex with no single definitive cause identified. Hair regrowth often occurred at trauma sites, suggesting local rather than systemic inhibition of hair growth.