Telogen Effluvium: A Curious Case Mimicking Male Androgenetic Alopecia

November 2025 in “ International Dermatology ”

Muhammad S. Iqbal, Muhammad O. MAZHAR, Muhammad O. ASHFAQ, Uzair Irfan, Awais Akhtar

telogen effluvium androgenetic alopecia diffuse hair loss hormonal changes

TLDR Accurate diagnosis is crucial to distinguish telogen effluvium from male pattern baldness to avoid unnecessary treatments.

This case report discusses a young man in his early 20s who was initially misdiagnosed with male androgenetic alopecia but was later found to have acute telogen effluvium (TE), a condition characterized by diffuse hair loss often triggered by stress, hormonal changes, or illnesses. The case highlights the clinical similarities between TE and male androgenetic alopecia, emphasizing the importance of accurate diagnosis to prevent unnecessary treatments and their potential side effects. The report calls for clinicians to consider TE in patients with hair loss resembling male androgenetic alopecia, especially when potential triggers are present.

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Research cited in this study

5 / 5 results

research Post-SARS-CoV-2 Acute Telogen Effluvium: An Expected Complication

8 citations , February 2022 in “Journal of Clinical Medicine”

Many COVID-19 patients experience temporary hair loss after infection, not linked to infection severity or treatment.

research COVID-19 Infection Is a Major Cause of Acute Telogen Effluvium

25 citations , August 2021 in “Irish Journal of Medical Science (1971 -)”

COVID-19 infection can significantly cause temporary hair loss.

research A Surge in the Incidence of Telogen Effluvium in Minority Predominant Communities Heavily Impacted by COVID-19

14 citations , December 2020 in “Journal of The American Academy of Dermatology”

More people, especially Hispanic/Latinx, in certain NYC communities experienced temporary hair loss during the COVID-19 pandemic.

research Minoxidil And Its Use In Hair Disorders: A Review

117 citations , August 2019 in “Drug Design Development and Therapy”

Minoxidil effectively treats hair loss, but use cautiously and monitor side effects.

research Psychological Effect, Pathophysiology, and Management of Androgenetic Alopecia in Men

112 citations , October 2005 in “Mayo Clinic Proceedings”

Minoxidil and finasteride can slow hair loss and stimulate regrowth, but won't restore all lost hair or reverse complete baldness.

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