Hårtab

Hårtab, or hair loss, refers to a reduction in hair density on the scalp or other parts of the body. It is usually a symptom rather than a disease, and many different conditions can cause it. The pattern and extent of hair loss can help indicate possible causes.

Common causes and patterns include androgenetic alopecia (genetic thinning, often on the crown in men and diffuse thinning in women), telogen effluvium (increased shedding after stress, illness, pregnancy, or major weight loss), and alopecia areata (autoimmune patchy loss). Traction alopecia results from prolonged tension on the hair from tight hairstyles, while scarring alopecias involve inflammation that permanently damages follicles. Infections (such as fungal scalp infections), nutritional deficiencies (iron, vitamin D, zinc, protein), hormonal disorders (thyroid disease, pregnancy, menopause), and certain medications or treatments (chemotherapy, anticoagulants, some antidepressants, radiation) can also cause hair loss.

Diagnosis typically involves medical history and physical examination, including a hair pull test. Doctors may order blood tests to check ferritin, thyroid function, vitamin levels, and other markers. In unclear cases, a scalp biopsy or dermoscopic examination can help distinguish conditions such as scarring versus non-scarring alopecias.

Treatment depends on the underlying cause. Androgenetic alopecia may be treated with topical minoxidil or oral finasteride (primarily in men), with women sometimes using alternatives or combination therapies. Alopecia areata can be managed with corticosteroid injections or topical immunotherapy; emerging options include JAK inhibitors. Telogen effluvium often improves when the triggering factor is addressed. Traction alopecia improves with hairstyle changes. Scarring alopecias require anti-inflammatory or immunosuppressive therapy to limit further follicle destruction. Infections are treated with antifungals or antibiotics as appropriate.

Prevention focuses on minimizing scalp damage, addressing nutritional deficiencies, managing stress, and treating underlying medical conditions promptly. The prognosis varies by cause and can range from reversible shedding to permanent hair loss.