Management of Hair Problems

In the 1979 document, Dr. Vera H. Price provided a detailed methodology for addressing hair loss, which included taking a thorough patient history, performing a clinical examination, conducting microscopic hair analysis, and in some cases, obtaining a scalp biopsy and laboratory tests. The history aimed to determine the pattern and nature of hair loss, while the clinical examination involved a "pull test" and inspection of the hair and scalp. Microscopic examination was used to detect fungal infections or structural issues, and scalp biopsies helped diagnose scarring alopecias. Laboratory tests were conducted as needed. The document described telogen effluvium as a temporary, stress-induced shedding of hair, androgenetic alopecia as hair loss influenced by androgens without an effective treatment at that time, and alopecia areata, which was treated with intralesional corticosteroids. The importance of an accurate diagnosis and tailored treatment plans was emphasized.