Miscellaneous Skin Disorders

Alopecia is the loss of hair in areas anywhere on the body where hair normally grows. Alopecia may be defined as scarring or non-scarring, localized or diffuse, congenital or acquired, reversible or permanent, or confined to the scalp or universal; however, alopecia is usually classified using the 1st 3 factors. The etiologies of alopecia are usually divided into disorders in which the hair follicle is abnormal or damaged and those in which the hair follicle is normal but the cycling of hair growth is abnormal. The most common presentations are androgenetic hair loss, alopecia areata, traction alopecia, tinea capitis, and telogen effluvium. Diagnosis is made through a positive medical history and physical exam findings. Treatment depends on the type and potential for regrowth.