Initial Office Evaluation of Hair Loss in Adult Women

June 2011 in “ The Journal for Nurse Practitioners ”

Darla A. Grimes, Olivia Blankenship, Christie Kremer, Sally Reese, Frances C Sonstein

hair growth cycle hair follicle disorders hair shaft disorders systemic causes infectious causes medication side effects medical history family history physical examination laboratory tests psychological impact treatment options specialist referral

TLDR Up to half of adult women may experience hair loss, and doctors should use medical history, exams, and tests to find the cause and treat it.

The 2011 document provides a comprehensive guide for clinicians on the evaluation and management of hair loss in adult women, noting that up to 50% may experience this condition. It outlines the hair growth cycle and categorizes hair loss into disruptions of the cycle, disorders of the hair follicle, and disorders of the hair shaft, while also considering systemic and infectious causes, and medication side effects. The importance of a detailed medical and family history, physical examination, and appropriate laboratory tests is emphasized to identify underlying conditions or triggers. The psychological impact of hair loss is acknowledged, and the document underscores the necessity for primary care providers to be well-informed about common causes, treatment options, and indications for specialist referral, given the prevalence of hair loss complaints in clinical practice.

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Research cited in this study

9 / 9 results

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To manage hair loss in adult women, find the cause and treat it accordingly.

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The review highlights the importance of stem cells in hair health and suggests new treatment strategies for hair loss conditions.

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The document concludes that understanding hair follicle biology can lead to better hair loss treatments.

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Early diagnosis and treatment, using finasteride, minoxidil, or hair transplantation, improves hair loss outcomes.

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