TLDR AIDS may cause changes in the scalp that increase infection risk and hair loss.
The study analyzed scalp samples from 28 women, half with AIDS and half without, to investigate the effects of AIDS on the scalp's immunologic and morphologic characteristics. The results showed that women with AIDS had a thinner epithelial layer, fewer epithelial cell layers, a reduced number of immature Langerhans cells, and a lower percentage of elastic fibers in the dermis, along with a higher number of telogen hair follicles, which are indicative of hair loss. There was no significant difference in collagen fibers or epithelial cell diameter between the two groups. The findings suggest that AIDS may lead to structural and immune changes in the scalp, potentially increasing the risk of opportunistic infections and contributing to alopecia.
43 citations,
November 2007 in “Journal of Investigative Dermatology Symposium Proceedings” The document concludes that proper diagnosis and treatment of common scalp disorders are important for both physical and psychological health.
15 citations,
August 2006 in “Journal of Cutaneous Pathology” HIV-1 may cause increased stem cell death in hair follicles, leading to hair loss.
23 citations,
June 2005 in “Journal of cosmetic dermatology” Men with hair loss may have lower self-esteem and could benefit from treatment and psychological support.
15 citations,
February 2003 in “British Journal of Dermatology” The study suggests computer-assisted analysis of scalp biopsies could improve hair loss diagnosis but needs more validation.
35 citations,
November 1996 in “Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology” Itraconazole was effective in treating unusual M. canis infections in only one of two HIV-infected men.
46 citations,
January 1996 in “Journal of The American Academy of Dermatology” People with late-stage HIV-1 often experience a specific type of hair loss linked to multiple factors, including nutritional issues and immune responses.
277 citations,
July 2011 in “Journal of the Dermatology Nurses’ Association” The skin's layers protect, sense, and regulate the body's internal balance, but can be prone to cancer.
76 citations,
February 2021 in “International Journal of Molecular Sciences” Mesenchymal stem cells show potential for skin healing and anti-aging, but more research is needed for safe use, especially regarding stem cells from induced pluripotent sources.
11 citations,
April 2016 in “The American Journal of Dermatopathology” Special and immunohistochemical stains are not routinely needed for diagnosing hair disorders.
January 2017 in “Springer eBooks” The document explains various skin conditions and their treatments.
48 citations,
November 1992 in “International Journal of Dermatology” Toxic epidermal necrolysis is a severe skin reaction often linked to drugs, requiring careful medication use and supportive care.
