Trichoscopy – A Valuable Tool for Identifying Conditions Mimicking Androgenetic Alopecia

November 2023 in “ International Journal of Dermatology ”

N.I. Khutsishvili, Lidia Rudnicka, Yuliya Ovcharenko, Michela Starace, Irma Buchukuri Irma Buchukuri, Salome Pataraia, Nino Lortkipanidze

trichoscopy androgenetic alopecia AGA Telogen effluvium Lichen planopilaris Fibrosing alopecia in pattern distribution Central centrifugal cicatricial alopecia Hairline maturation Frontal fibrosing alopecia Traction alopecia Trichotillomania Alopecia Areata pseudotrichoscopic signs hair loss hair thinning hair dyeing hair products

Studysummary This review presents European expert guidelines for diagnosing androgenetic alopecia across genders but reports no new clinical findings; it emphasizes the importance of trichoscopy for differentiating similar conditions.

Our plain-language summary. Not medical advice or a treatment recommendation. Consult a qualified healthcare professional before changing treatment. Full disclaimer

The document discusses the use of trichoscopy, a non-invasive diagnostic tool, for identifying conditions that mimic androgenetic alopecia (AGA), a common type of hair loss. It details several conditions that can be mistaken for AGA, such as Telogen effluvium, Lichen planopilaris, Fibrosing alopecia in pattern distribution, Central centrifugal cicatricial alopecia, Hairline maturation, Frontal fibrosing alopecia, Traction alopecia, Trichotillomania, and Alopecia Areata. Each condition has specific trichoscopic features that can differentiate them from AGA. The document also highlights the need to evaluate pseudotrichoscopic signs, often connected with hair dyeing and the use of various hair products, which can lead to misdiagnosis. It emphasizes the importance of a thorough history in conjunction with trichoscopy for accurate diagnosis and monitoring the progression of AGA and the effectiveness of treatments.

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