Hair Loss as a Symptom of Many Complex Medical and Psychological Problems

Hair loss, as discussed in this document, is a symptom of various diseases and conditions, from mild and transient to severe and life-threatening. It can be caused by systemic diseases such as lupus, sclerosis, dermatomyositis, lymphomas, multiple myeloma, and malignant tumour metastases. Trichoscopy can help identify these systemic causes. Androgenetic alopecia, a common cause of hair loss in both genders, can sometimes indicate hormonal dysfunction, such as polycystic ovarian syndrome. Telogen effluvium, another common cause of hair loss, has been linked to post-COVID-19 symptoms and may result in permanent hair loss due to fibrosis. Alopecia areata, an autoimmune disease, is being treated with JAK inhibitors, which have been found to have infrequent and mostly mild or moderate adverse effects. However, long-term safety of these inhibitors needs further evaluation. Up to 62% of patients with alopecia areata make significant life decisions based on their condition, and children and adolescents with hair loss often experience bullying.