Hair Cycle and Alopecia X in Dogs

The document reviewed Alopecia X in dogs, a non-inflammatory, symmetrical hair loss condition with unknown etiology, primarily affecting breeds like Pomeranians and miniature poodles. It suggested that the condition might involve hair cycle arrest due to abnormalities in hormone receptors at the hair follicle level. Histopathology often showed "flame follicles" and excessive trichilemmal keratinization. Various treatments, including castration, melatonin, and trilostane, had variable efficacy, with no significant changes in steroid hormone levels before and after treatment, indicating hair regrowth was not due to hormonal modifications. The study concluded that Alopecia X is not a true endocrinopathy and recommended avoiding potentially harmful treatments for this primarily aesthetic issue.