Diagnosis and Treatment of Hair and Scalp Diseases

Diagnosis and Treatment of Hair and Scalp Diseases

Hair and scalp disorders can affect patients’ psychological well-being beyond just their aesthetic appearance. Conditions like hair loss, dandruff, itching, and skin lesions can be managed effectively through accurate diagnosis and treatment by dermatologists.

Types of Hair and Scalp Disorders

1. Hair Loss (Alopecia)

• Androgenetic Alopecia: Hereditary hair loss seen in both men and women.
• Alopecia Areata: Patchy hair loss associated with the immune system.
• Telogen Effluvium: Hair loss due to stress, nutritional deficiencies, or hormonal imbalances.
• Traction Alopecia: Hair loss caused by prolonged pulling of the hair.

2. Dandruff and Seborrheic Dermatitis

• A chronic skin condition characterized by oily, scaly patches that can cause itching and redness.

3. Scalp Infections

• Tinea Capitis: Fungal infection causing lesions and hair loss on the scalp.
• Folliculitis: Bacterial infection of hair follicles resulting in redness and pimples.

4. Psoriasis (Plaque Psoriasis)

• A chronic inflammatory disease characterized by thick scaling and redness on the scalp.

5. Pediculosis (Lice Infestation)

• An infectious condition characterized by the presence of lice in the hair, leading to itching and skin irritation.

Diagnostic Methods

1. Clinical Examination: Evaluation of the type of hair loss, dandruff, and the extent of lesions.

2. Dermatoscopy: Examination method that magnifies the hair follicles and scalp.

3. Trichoscopy: Used for a detailed examination of hair roots and hair structure.

4. Laboratory Tests:

• Blood Tests: To detect anemia, thyroid issues, or vitamin deficiencies.
• Fungal Culture Test: To identify fungal infections.
• Biopsy: A skin biopsy may be performed in chronic and severe cases.

Treatment Methods

1. Medication

• Minoxidil: A spray that promotes hair growth in androgenetic alopecia.
• Finasteride/Dutasteride: Hormone-regulating medications for male pattern hair loss.
• Corticosteroids: Used to reduce inflammation in immune-related hair loss such as alopecia areata.
• Antifungal Medications: Used to treat fungal infections like tinea capitis.
• Antibiotics: Used for bacterial infections and folliculitis.

2. Topical Treatments and Shampoos

• Ketoconazole-Containing Shampoos: Effective in treating dandruff and seborrheic dermatitis.
• Zinc Pyrithione and Selenium Sulfide: Help reduce dandruff and itching.
• Topical Steroids: Used to treat skin conditions like psoriasis.

3. Mesotherapy

• Treatment involving injections of special mixtures containing vitamins, minerals, and growth factors into the scalp to combat hair loss.

4. Laser Therapy

• Low-level laser therapy strengthens hair follicles and reduces hair loss.

5. Hair Transplantation

• Surgical methods are employed to transplant new hair follicles in cases of permanent hair loss (using FUE or DHI techniques).

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