Hair Loss (Alopecia)

 The word "alopecia" is the medical term for hair loss. 

Alopecia does not refer to one specific hair loss disease; any form of hair loss is an alopecia. 

Causes 

 There are many causes that cause hair loss including endocrine abnormalities, genetic predisposition, systemic illness, drugs, psychological abnormalities, diet, trauma, infections, autoimmunity, and structural hair defects. 

Types of alopecia 

 Hair loss comes in a number of different forms. Listed below are the main types of hairloss and the characteristics of each type. 

1.  Scarring Alopecia: A form of alopecia which leaves scarring on the area of hair loss. The follicular ostia is lost. 
2. Alopecia Areata (AA): Used to describe hair loss occurring in patches anywhere on the body. 
3.  Alopecia Totalis (AT): Total loss of the hair on the scalp. 
4.  Alopecia Universalis (AU): Total loss of all hair on the body. 
5.  Androgenetic Alopecia (AGA): Also known as male pattern baldness. It is a thinning of the hair to an almost transparent state, in both men or women. It is thought to be a hereditary form of hair loss. 
6.  Telogen Effluvium: A form of hair loss where more than normal amounts of hair fall out. Unlike some other hair and scalp conditions, it is temporary and the hair growth usually recovers. 
7. Anagen Effluvium: This hair loss is generally caused by chemicals such as those used to treat cancer. Initially it causes patchy hair loss, which often then becomes total hair loss. The good news is that when you stop using these chemicals the hair normally grows back (usually about 6 months later). Other drugs also can cause hair loss. Many medicines used to treat even common diseases can cause hair loss. 
8.  Traction Alopecia: Traction alopecia is usually due to excessive pulling or tension on hair shafts as a result of certain hair styles. It is seen more often in women. Hair loss depends on the way the hair is being pulled. Prolonged traction alopecia can stop new hair follicles developing and lead to permanent hair loss. 
9.  Trichotillomania: a hair-pulling disorder, is a mental disorder that involves an irresistible urge to pull out hair. This behavior occurs to the point of noticeable hair loss. The most common areas for hair pulling are the scalp, eyelashes, and eyebrows but may involve hair anywhere on the body.