February, 2004
EEMCO Guidance for the Assessment of Hair Shedding
and Alopecia.
Pierard GE, Pierard-Franchimont C, Marks R, Elsner P.
Department of Dermatopathology, Unit of Dermocosmetology, University
Hospital Sart Tilman, Liege, Belgium.
Knowledge of the hair follicle anatomy and the dynamics of hair
cycling is substantial. Recognizing the anagen, catagen and telogen
phases as well as teloptosis and the hair eclipse phenomenon clearly
characterizes the typical hair chronobiology.
Physiological modulators
include hormones, neuromediators, miscellaneous biomolecules, seasons,
micro-inflammation and ageing. For individuals who present with the
complaint of increased hair shedding or alopecia, a host of evaluation
techniques are available in addition to history, physical examination
and laboratory assessment.
Various clinical hair techniques can help
in assessing the efficacy of drugs and cosmetics on hair growth. The
methods are quite similar to those used to establish a definite
diagnosis in dermatological practice.
Great strides have been made
during the recent decades in the methodology of hair growth trials in
dermatology and cosmetology. Clinical evaluations benefit from a few
additional specific techniques that enhance the perception of hair
(re-) growth, shedding and alopecia.
These assessments include the
determination of hair patterning and density that may be helped by the
'black-and-white felt' examination.
Daily hair counts, the 'hair pull
test' and the 'hair feathering test' are also available. Instrumental
methods provide reliable quantitative information that is useful if
there are adequate controls.
Some photographic methods, the trichogram,
hair weighing and variants of the hair growth window technique
including the phototrichogram, videotrichogram and
tractio-phototrichogram provide insight into the complexities of hair
cycling and shedding.
Skin biopsy is indicated for diagnostic
purposes, especially when the hair loss is accompanied by scarring.
Copyright 2004 S. Karger AG, Basel
PMID: 14976387 [PubMed - in process]
 
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