ULBP3: A Marker for Alopecia Areata Incognita

A woman experiencing hair loss for over three years was diagnosed with female pattern hair loss and later with telogen effluvium, leading to a temporary stop of spironolactone treatment. She questions the diagnosis and treatment as her hair continues to worsen despite being advised to wait it out.

Lichen Planopilaris (LPP) is an autoimmune condition causing permanent hair loss and fibrosis, often misdiagnosed. Treatments include pioglitazone, topical corticosteroids, anti-inflammatory medication, and Jak inhibitors.

A 27-year-old woman with advanced female pattern hair loss and telogen effluvium is experiencing increased hair shedding after starting oral minoxidil and finasteride. She is seeking advice and reassurance from others who have experienced similar issues, while also considering additional treatments like dermapen and ensuring her nutritional needs are met.

A 21-year-old male diagnosed with telogen effluvium and male pattern baldness started oral finasteride, which initially slowed hair loss and slightly thickened hair, but experienced increased shedding after surgery. The doctor recommended iron and vitamin D supplements, and the user is seeking additional advice.

The conversation discusses severe hair shedding and thinning, with the original poster using finasteride, oral minoxidil, and other supplements without improvement. The discussion highlights the possibility of telogen effluvium and the importance of addressing potential underlying health issues, such as stress and gut health, rather than assuming diffuse unpatterned alopecia (DUPA).

Men with hair loss might have lichen planopilaris (LPP), which can mimic androgenetic alopecia, leading to misdiagnosis and ineffective treatment with finasteride or dutasteride. Proper diagnosis, including biopsies, is crucial to distinguish between androgenetic alopecia and conditions like LPP.