Hair loss is a multifaceted issue that affects people of all ages and genders. While it may seem like a cosmetic concern, it often signals underlying health problems that need to be addressed. From nutritional deficiencies to hormonal imbalances and illnesses, identifying the root cause is essential for effective treatment. Blood tests are one of the most reliable diagnostic tools for uncovering these causes.Skin Biopsy and Histopathology along with Ultrasound tests are sometimes required to diagnose it.
At Derma Clinic, the premier clinic in Kathmandu, Nepal, we specialize in diagnosing and treating all types of hair loss. Our advanced lab testing services ensure that you receive accurate diagnoses and personalized treatment plans tailored to your needs.
Understanding Hair Loss: Causes and Types
Hair loss can occur due to various factors, including genetics, hormonal changes, stress, nutritional deficiencies, and illnesses. Below is an overview of common causes based on demographics:
Hair Loss in Men
- Androgenetic Alopecia (Male Pattern Baldness): Caused by genetic predisposition and the hormone dihydrotestosterone (DHT), leading to a receding hairline or thinning at the crown.
- Telogen Effluvium: Temporary hair shedding triggered by stress, illness, or medications.
- Alopecia Areata: An autoimmune condition causing patchy bald spots.
- Illness-Related Hair Loss: Conditions like COVID-19, dengue, jaundice, or thyroid disorders can contribute to hair thinning.
Hair Loss in Women
- Female Pattern Hair Loss (FPHL): Diffuse thinning over the scalp due to hormonal changes or genetic factors.
- Telogen Effluvium: Often linked to postpartum changes, stress, or nutritional deficiencies like low iron.
- Alopecia Areata: Unpredictable patchy hair loss caused by autoimmune conditions.
- Illness-Related Hair Loss: Viral infections like COVID-19 or chronic conditions such as thyroid imbalances can lead to significant hair loss.
Hair Loss in Children
- Tinea Capitis: A fungal infection causing scaly patches and broken hairs.
- Alopecia Areata: Patchy bald spots caused by autoimmune responses.
- Telogen Effluvium: Triggered by stress or illness.
- Nutritional Deficiencies: Low levels of iron, zinc, or biotin can contribute to hair loss.
The Role of Illness in Hair Loss
Certain illnesses can directly or indirectly lead to hair loss. For example:
- COVID-19: Post-COVID telogen effluvium is common due to the physical stress caused by the infection.
- Dengue Fever: High fever and systemic inflammation can disrupt the hair growth cycle.
- Jaundice and Liver Disorders: Poor liver function affects nutrient absorption, leading to hair thinning.
In such cases, blood tests like Complete Blood Count (CBC), Liver Function Tests (LFTs), and Kidney Function Tests (KFTs) are critical for understanding the underlying health issues contributing to hair loss.
Key Blood Tests for Diagnosing Hair Loss
Blood tests provide valuable insights into potential causes of hair loss. Here’s a breakdown of essential tests:
| Test | Purpose | What It Detects |
|---|---|---|
| Complete Blood Count (CBC) | Checks overall blood health | Anemia, infections |
| Ferritin and Iron Studies | Measures iron levels | Iron deficiency linked to hair thinning |
| Thyroid Function Tests (TFTs) | Evaluates thyroid gland function | Hypothyroidism or hyperthyroidism |
| Liver Function Tests (LFTs) | Assesses liver health | Jaundice or liver-related nutrient deficiencies |
| Kidney Function Tests (KFTs) | Monitors kidney health | Toxin buildup affecting overall health |
| Vitamin D Levels | Assesses vitamin D status | Deficiency linked to alopecia or diffuse hair loss |
| Vitamin B12 Levels | Evaluates B12 levels | Deficiency causing brittle hair and shedding |
| Zinc and Biotin Levels | Checks essential nutrients | Deficiencies affecting hair follicle health |
| Hormonal Panel | Investigates hormone imbalances | PCOS, menopause-related changes, androgen excess |
| Autoimmune Markers | Screens for autoimmune conditions | Lupus, alopecia areata |
Hormonal Tests for Hair Loss
Hormonal tests play a crucial role in diagnosing hair loss caused by imbalances in the endocrine system. These tests help identify specific hormonal issues that affect hair growth and shedding in both men and women. Below is an explanation of the key hormonal tests and the conditions they are associated with:
Hormonal Tests for Hair Loss
| Test Name | Purpose | Conditions Affecting Hair Loss |
|---|---|---|
| Testosterone | Measures levels of the male sex hormone. | Elevated testosterone can lead to androgenetic alopecia (male or female pattern baldness). In women, it may indicate Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS), which is linked to hair thinning. |
| Dihydrotestosterone (DHT) | Assesses levels of DHT, a derivative of testosterone. | High DHT levels shrink hair follicles, causing male pattern baldness and contributing to female pattern hair loss. |
| Dehydroepiandrosterone Sulfate (DHEA-S) | Evaluates adrenal gland function and androgen production. | Elevated DHEA-S levels are often seen in women with PCOS, leading to hair thinning. |
| Estrogen | Measures levels of the female sex hormone. | Low estrogen levels during menopause or hormonal imbalances can cause diffuse hair thinning in women. |
| Progesterone | Checks progesterone levels, especially in women. | Low progesterone can disrupt the balance between estrogen and testosterone, contributing to hair loss during menopause or pregnancy. |
| Luteinizing Hormone (LH) | Monitors reproductive hormone regulation. | Elevated LH levels are common in PCOS, affecting hair growth in women. |
| Follicle-Stimulating Hormone (FSH) | Evaluates ovarian function and fertility. | High FSH levels during menopause can lead to hormonal changes that cause hair thinning in women. |
| Prolactin | Measures prolactin, a hormone produced by the pituitary gland. | Elevated prolactin levels may disrupt hormonal balance, leading to hair loss in both men and women. |
| Thyroid Function Tests (TFTs) | Includes TSH, T3, and T4 tests to assess thyroid health. | Hypothyroidism (low thyroid activity) and hyperthyroidism (high thyroid activity) are linked to diffuse hair shedding in both genders. |
Hormonal Conditions Affecting Hair Loss
In Men
- Androgenetic Alopecia:
- Caused by elevated DHT levels that shrink hair follicles over time.
- Testosterone imbalances can accelerate male pattern baldness.
- Hypothyroidism or Hyperthyroidism:
- Thyroid dysfunction affects the growth cycle of hair follicles, leading to thinning or shedding.
- Prolactin Disorders:
- Excess prolactin can alter testosterone levels, indirectly contributing to hair loss.
In Women
- Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS):
- Characterized by elevated androgen levels (testosterone, DHT, DHEA-S), leading to thinning hair or diffuse shedding.
- Hormonal panels including LH and FSH help diagnose PCOS-related hair loss.
- Menopause:
- Declining estrogen and progesterone levels during menopause result in hormonal imbalances that cause diffuse thinning over the scalp.
- Postpartum Hair Loss:
- Sudden drops in estrogen after childbirth lead to temporary shedding known as telogen effluvium.
- Thyroid Disorders:
- Both hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism disrupt the normal growth cycle of hair follicles, causing generalized thinning.
Why Hormonal Testing is Crucial
Hormonal imbalances often go unnoticed until symptoms like hair loss appear. Testing helps:
- Pinpoint specific hormonal issues causing hair loss.
- Guide targeted treatments such as hormone replacement therapy or medications.
- Differentiate between hereditary conditions like androgenetic alopecia and systemic issues like thyroid dysfunction or PCOS.
Why Choose Derma Clinic?
At Derma Clinic in Kathmandu:
- We offer advanced diagnostic tools for all types of hair loss.
- Our expert dermatologists provide personalized care based on your specific needs.
- Our in-house lab ensures accurate blood test results with quick turnaround times.
Whether your hair loss is due to illness, hormonal changes, or nutritional deficiencies, we are here to help you regain your confidence with effective solutions.
Don’t let hair loss affect your quality of life. Visit Derma Clinic—the best clinic in Kathmandu—for comprehensive testing and treatments tailored just for you!
Derma Clinic
4th Floor Bishal Bhawan
Basundhara Chowki,
Kathmandu
9801358600 / 01-5918555