Do I have retrograde alopecia? (photos)

Question

I also have eyebrow loss. My GP checked my thyroid levels and blood counts; all are within normal range. I know I need to see a specialist. Who in the UK though? Or do I need to fly to the US? I just need someone to advise me.

Jason Emer, MD · Answer

First things first, seek out an expert to get this looked at. They might run their own labs as a precaution and ask for a biopsy. For hair regrowth, I ask my patients to start theradome (see link). Best, Dr. Emer

Epameinondas Bonaros, MD · Answer

It is unlikely that retrograde alopecia is the cause of this condition. Both the photographs you have provided as well as your history of eyebrow loss point to scarring alopecia. Trichoscopy and scalp biopsy may be necessary to determine a diagnosis.

Jeff Donovan, MD, PhD · Answer

You are correct you need to see a specialist as you may need a scalp biopsy. Scarring alopecia needs to be ruled out here as that’s one of the top diagnoses (particularly one known as frontal fibrosing alopecia). A variant of alopecia areata is possible too and a full and proper examination can help differentiate these (with trichoscopy). A full skin examination is helpful to look for other areas of hair loss and to confirm the presence or absence of lichen planus and lichen planus pigmentosus. You might need other blood tests. This is probably not retorgrade alopecia as you might be thinking of in the context of androgenetic alopecia. This is different. You might want to contact the British Hair and Nail Society for a list of specialists who can assist you.  The key here is to see a knowledgeable specialist who can review your story, examine the scalp and perform the necessary tests. Don’t settle for anyone who says this is retrograde alopecia and to start to treatment for male balding. That’s not the direction to go.

Do I have retrograde alopecia? (photos)

Answers (3)

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