Differential Diagnosis for Sudden Hair Loss in Women
- Single most likely diagnosis
- Telogen Effluvium: This condition is characterized by a significant increase in the number of hair follicles that stop growing and enter the resting phase, leading to excessive hair shedding. It is often triggered by stress, hormonal changes, or medical conditions, making it a common cause of sudden hair loss in women.
- Other Likely diagnoses
- Androgenetic Alopecia (Female Pattern Hair Loss): This is a common form of hair loss in women, caused by a combination of genetics, hormones, and age. It typically presents as a gradual thinning of hair over the scalp, but can sometimes appear sudden.
- Alopecia Areata: An autoimmune condition that causes patchy hair loss, which can sometimes be sudden and widespread.
- Thyroid Disorders: Both hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism can cause hair loss, as thyroid hormones play a crucial role in hair growth.
- Do Not Miss (ddxs that may not be likely, but would be deadly if missed.)
- Lupus: Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is an autoimmune disease that can cause hair loss, among other symptoms. It is essential to consider lupus as a potential diagnosis, as it can be life-threatening if left untreated.
- Cancer (e.g., lymphoma, leukemia): Certain types of cancer can cause hair loss, either due to the disease itself or as a side effect of treatment.
- Rare diagnoses
- Traction Alopecia: Hair loss caused by constant pulling on the hair, often due to hairstyles such as tight braids or ponytails.
- Trichotillomania: A psychological disorder characterized by compulsive hair pulling, leading to noticeable hair loss.
- Loose Anagen Syndrome: A rare condition that causes hair to fall out easily, often due to a defect in the hair growth cycle.