Trichoscopy: A New Frontier for the Diagnosis of Hair Diseases

The document from 2012 describes trichoscopy as a noninvasive diagnostic method for hair and scalp diseases, using a dermoscope or video microscope. It outlines a trichoscopic algorithm for diagnosing common hair loss diseases, distinguishing between cicatricial and noncicatricial alopecia based on the presence or absence of hair orifices and other features. Alopecia areata is identified by yellow dots, black dots, or broken hairs, androgenetic alopecia by hair diameter diversity, and tinea capitis by comma hairs. The article emphasizes the importance of careful observation and follow-up for accurate diagnosis and suggests that trichoscopy can reduce the need for skin biopsies. It also discusses the use of trichoscopy for differentiating between various hair loss conditions and for quantitative analysis, but notes that it should be used alongside clinical and histopathological data for the best diagnostic outcomes.