Telogen Effluvium in the New SARS-CoV-2 Era

The document discusses Telogen effluvium (TE), a common form of hair loss triggered by various factors, including SARS-CoV-2 infection and the psychological stress due to mobility restrictions imposed during the pandemic. TE is characterized by a shift in the hair follicle cycle, leading to diffuse hair shedding, and is diagnosed when more than 20% of hairs are in the telogen phase. The increase in TE cases has been observed in dermatology consultations, with reports of worsening in patients with pre-existing TE and new cases following COVID-19 infection. Diagnosis is primarily clinical, supported by a positive pull test and sometimes trichogram or wash test. Treatment involves identifying and eliminating the triggering factor, reassuring the patient about hair regrowth, and possibly using corticosteroid creams, topical or oral minoxidil, and other supplements. Dermatologists are advised to consider the link between COVID-19, stress, and TE, and further studies are needed to understand the association and pathogenesis of TE with SARS-CoV-2.