Hair and nails

Question 1

Two types of hair follicles

Answer 1

Terminal: larger, thicker hairs. (on scalp)
Vellus: short, fine hairs (arms, legs. Hormonal effects can transition from Vellus to terminal and vice versa)

Question 2

Effects of puberty on hair follicles

Answer 2

Some vellus hair become terminal hair. Example: axillae

Question 3

four stages of hair growth

Answer 3

Anagen (growing, 90%)
Catagen (transitional)
Telegen (resting, 10%)
Exogen (shedding)

Question 4

scarring alopecias

Answer 4

Inflammatory disorders of scalp that result in permanent hair loss. Many conditions.

Generally, look for erythema, plaques, pustules, scaling, and other lesions; signs of scarring.

Question 5

Trichoscopy

Answer 5

Test to see if hair follicle is still present. Determines if alopecia is scarring or not. Purple dots not wiped away by alcohol indicates follicle is still present.

Question 6

Nonscarring alopecias

Answer 6

Hair will grow back. None or mild inflammation. No destruction of hair follicle.

Question 7

important components of HPI for hair loss

Answer 7

Determine if scarring/nonscarring

Associated symptoms
Past medical history
Medication and supplement use
Dietary/nutritional history
Hair care practices
Pertinent family history

Question 8

Hara pull test

Answer 8

Grasp 50 to 60 hairs close to skin surface and tug proximal to distal. No more than a few hairs should come out, positive if more than six are easily extracted. Repeat in several areas.

Question 9

Minoxidil

Answer 9

Prevents further progression of Androgenic alopecia. Results in increased hair density and thickness. May have some increased shedding within the first eight weeks. Recheck after six months.

Side effects include hypertrichosis. Avoid in pregnancy

Question 10

finasteride

Answer 10

Can be used in conjunction with minoxidil. Side effects may include sexual dysfunction and depression. Avoid in pregnancy.