Recurrent Episodes of Hair Loss in a 37-Year-Old Woman

In 2012, a case report described a 37-year-old woman with recurrent hair loss, initially due to emotional stress and a miscarriage, and linked to low iron levels. The primary diagnosis was telogen effluvium, a condition where hair prematurely enters the resting phase, often due to stress, hormonal shifts, or nutritional deficits. Other possible conditions considered were androgenetic alopecia, diffuse alopecia areata, anagen effluvium, and secondary syphilis. Diagnosis involved a hair pull test and various lab tests, including blood count and thyroid function. The outlook for acute telogen effluvium was positive, with hair typically regrowing within six months. Treatment included addressing the root causes, possibly with iron supplements and topical minoxidil. The patient experienced full hair regrowth.