Baldness, also known as alopecia, is hair loss, or absence of hair.
Baldness is usually most noticeable on the scalp, but can occur anywhere on the body where hair grows.
The condition is more common in men than in women.
What causes hair loss?
Hair loss is believed to be primarily caused by a combination of the following:
- aging ;
- change in hormones ;
- illness ;
- amily history of baldness ;
- burns ;
- trauma.
However, hair loss is not caused by the following:
- poor circulation to the scalp ;
- vitamin deficiencies ;
- dandruff ;
- excessive hat-wearing ;
- a gene passed on from an individual's maternal grandfather.
Generally, the earlier hair loss begins, the more severe the baldness will become.
What are the different types of baldness?
Baldness can be classified into various types, depending on the cause. Several of the many different types of baldness include the following:
- female-pattern baldness
Although less common, female-pattern baldness differs from that of male-pattern baldness in that the hair generally thins all over the head, but the frontal hairline is maintained. Female-pattern baldness rarely results in total hair loss.male-pattern
- baldness
Male-pattern baldness usually is a hereditary condition. The condition may begin at any age. Hair loss often begins on the front, sides, and/or on the crown of the head. Some men may develop a bald spot or just a receding hair line, while others may lose all of their hair.
- alopecia areata
This hair loss disorder is characterized by sudden loss of hair in one particular area, which grows back after several months. However, if all body hair is suddenly lost, regrowth may not occur. The cause of this type of hair loss is unknown.
- toxic alopecia
Toxic alopecia may occur following a high fever or severe illness. Certain medications, especially thallium, high doses of vitamin A, and retinoids, may cause toxic alopecia. Medical conditions, such as thyroid disease, and after giving birth may also trigger toxic alopecia. The condition is characterized by temporary hair loss. Also, some cancer medications can cause hair loss.
- scarring alopecia
Scarred areas may prevent the hair from growing back. Scarring may occur from burns, injury, or x-ray therapy. However, other types of scarring that may cause hair loss can be caused by diseases such as lupus, bacterial or fungal skin infections, lichen planus, sarcoidosis, tuberculosis, or skin cancer.
- trichotillomania (hair pulling)
Hair pulling, a habit most common among children, may cause hair loss.
How is the type of baldness diagnosed?
In addition to a medical history and physical examination, a biopsy of the skin area may help to identify the type of baldness and/or its cause.
Treatment for baldness:
Specific treatment for baldness will be determined by your physician based on:
- your age, overall health, and medical history ;
- extent of the condition ;
- your tolerance for specific medications, procedures, and therapies ;
- expectation for the course of the disease ;
- your opinion or preference.
Most forms of baldness have no cure. Some types of baldness will disappear on their own. Treatment may include:
- certain medications to promote hair growth (such as minoxidil and finasteride) ;
- corticosteroid injections (when treating alopecia areata) ;
- treating any underlying condition or disease ;
- hair transplants ;
- scalp reduction ;
- skin lifts and grafts.
Source : HealthSystem.Virginia.edu |
