Current Standards in the Diagnostics and Therapy of Hair Diseases - Hair Consultation

The 2011 document provides a detailed overview of the standards for diagnosing and treating hair diseases, emphasizing the importance of a thorough patient history and clinical examination. It discusses the biology of hair, common conditions like androgenetic alopecia, alopecia areata, and telogen effluvium, and the psychological impact of hair disorders. Diagnostic methods such as the hair pull test, dermatoscopy, and biopsy are recommended, along with laboratory tests for diffuse hair loss. Treatments for androgenetic alopecia include minoxidil and finasteride, with caution advised for finasteride use in women of childbearing age. Hirsutism treatments range from pharmacologic to non-pharmacologic methods, while alopecia areata treatments include corticosteroids and topical immunotherapy. The document also covers hair transplantation, emphasizing that it does not halt the progression of hair diseases and should be considered after inflammation has ceased. Non-surgical hair replacement methods and hair removal techniques are discussed, along with the importance of psychological care for patients. The authors advocate for evidence-based therapy and the use of guidelines to improve patient outcomes.