Questionable biopsy results - what could be causing my hair loss? (photo)

Question

Suddenly experienced extreme hair loss about 3 months after extream stress as well as moving to a different country (I just turned 20). I was loosing hair by the handful. It got to the point that I couldn’t wear my hair down otherwise there would be hair everywhere. Dermatologist looked at scalp and was 100% sure it was TE as well as nurse who did my biopsy, did a biopsy and it came back as aga, derm and myself extremely surprised. Is there any way the biopsy could be wrong? It doesn’t make sens

Marco Barusco, MD · Answer

Hello,

It is possible to have both Telogen Effluvium and Androgenetic Alopecia. This shedding you are experiencing may be as a result to the extreme stress. Typically, we will discuss treatment options to manage the TE and also assist with the genetic aspect of your hair loss. We will be happy to provide you a complimentary consultation virtually to discuss.

Jeff Donovan, MD, PhD · Answer

Well, it’s possible a biopsy can be wrong. But how does androgenetic hair loss start in young women? With lots of shedding. What is the most common misdiagnosis in those with shedding? Androgenetic alopecia. I would need to know more about your story and see your scalp up close and see your biopsy results myself to say it it’s wrong or not. If the terminal to vellus hair ratio is less than 4:1 and telogen proportion is less than 12 % it is unlikely you are dealing with TE and more likely AGA.

Questionable biopsy results - what could be causing my hair loss? (photo)

Answers (2)