A retrospective review of the spectrum of scalp hair loss at the Lagos State University Teaching Hospital Dermatology Clinic
A Retrospective Review of the Spectrum of Scalp Hair
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.66344/jpad.v34i2.2637Keywords:
hair loss, alopecia, alopecia areata, discoid lupus, central centrifugal cicatricial alopeciaAbstract
Background Scalp hair loss (HL) is not uncommon but the documentation of the spectrum of it in clinical settings is rare. This study aimed to document the prevalence, spectrum and any gender based differences in types of scalp hair loss.
Methods This was a retrospective chart review of 131 cases of HL treated at the out-patient dermatology clinic of the Lagos State University Teaching Hospital from January 2017 to December 2022. Data extracted included age, age at onset, gender, duration, family history of HL, pattern of HL (patchy or diffuse), symptoms (pain, pruritus) and type of HL.
Results The prevalence of HL was 3.9% and the median (IQR) age at onset of hair loss was 28 (19.37) years. The age of onset of HL occurred more between 20-29 years of age. The population was mostly female; 61.1%. Patients aged 20-39 years were predominantly affected (51.9%). Hair loss was patchy in 82.4% and symptomatic in 67.2%. Alopecia areata (AA) was the most diagnosed type of HL and the least diagnosed HL was telogen effluvium (TE). Self-medication was noted in 26.7%. Acne keloidalis nuchae and FD occurred only in males. Discoid lupus, psoriasis and CCCA occurred more in females. Traction alopecia and TE occurred only in females.
Conclusion Hair loss is an uncommon presentation in the clinic. It occurs more in females and alopecia areata is the commonest HL diagnosed. The pattern of HL is mostly patchy and non-scarring. Gender and age influence HL types.
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