When Hair Loss Isn’t Genetic – Part 1

We noted just last week that some have estimated as much as 80% of hair loss cases worldwide are due to genetics. But what about hair loss that is not found inside your genetic makeup? Let’s review several of the non-genetic reasons we might suffer hair loss.

Underlying medical conditions sometimes trigger hair loss. In order to rule them out, Dr. Williams performs several tests. One is a blood test that might uncover these hidden illnesses. Another is a pull test, which shows the extent of the shedding process. He also performs a scalp biopsy, during which he plucks some hair and skin samples from your scalp for further analysis. The final examination is the light microscopy test, which examines trimmed hairs to identify any disorders with their shafts. You may be referred back to your primary care doctor or a specialist if more testing is needed.

Did you know? An estimated 30-40 diseases or disorders can cause hair loss, with new discoveries being made regularly. Some of the connections are obvious, as some disorders set off a chain reaction that affects other parts of the body. However, some connections are not quite as easy to make, with some research reaching an inconclusive result.

Some medical conditions causing hair loss are researched more than others. The main focus tends to be on the ones that affect the larger population. We will cover some of the non-genetic causes today and more in the future.

Autoimmune Disorders

Autoimmune disorders are far more prevalent in women than men, at almost a 3:1 ratio.

1. Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE): Lupus is known for its wide range of symptoms affecting various systems in the body. Hair loss, often characterized by diffuse thinning or patches of hair loss, can occur due to inflammation and immune system abnormalities affecting hair follicles.
2. Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA): While RA primarily affects the joints, it can also cause inflammation in other parts of the body, including the scalp. Inflammation in the scalp can lead to a type of hair loss called “alopecia areata,” which presents itself as round patches of missing hair.
3. Type 1 Diabetes: Though hair loss isn’t a direct symptom of Type 1 Diabetes, people with this condition might experience hair thinning or hair loss due to factors like poor circulation, hormonal imbalances, or stress related to managing the disease. Some people with Type 2 Diabetes may experience hair loss due to the same factors, but it is not as common.

Hormonal Disorders

1. Hypothyroidism/Hyperthyroidism: Thyroid disorders can disrupt the normal hair growth cycle, leading to hair thinning or loss. It is technically both an autoimmune disorder and a hormonal disorder.
2. Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS): PCOS is a hormonal disorder that affects women of reproductive age. It’s characterized by higher levels of androgens, which can lead to hair thinning or excessive hair growth in unwanted areas (hirsutism).
3. Cushing’s Syndrome: It is noted by an excess production of cortisol, a stress hormone, leading to hair loss and other symptoms. Tumors can usually be found in one or both adrenal glands, causing an increased production of the hormone.

Local Infection

1. Scalp infections: These are caused by fungi, yeast, or bacteria and can affect the hair follicles, causing redness, pus, and scarring, leading to hair loss. If you notice any of the above symptoms, it is crucial to seek treatment right away.
   1. Tinea Capitis (Scalp Ringworm): This fungal infection affects the scalp and hair follicles. It can cause red, scaly scalp patches and hair loss in the affected areas. The infection can spread and lead to broken hairs, bald patches, and a “black dot” appearance due to the broken hair shafts.
   2. Folliculitis: Folliculitis is an infection or inflammation of the hair follicles. It can be caused by bacteria, fungi, or viruses. Folliculitis can lead to pustules or red bumps around the hair follicles and may result in temporary hair loss in the affected areas.
   3. Impetigo: Impetigo is a bacterial skin infection that can occur on the scalp and cause sores, blisters, and crusting. Severe cases of impetigo might lead to hair loss in the affected areas.
2. Cellulitis: Although not primarily a hair follicle infection, severe cases of cellulitis, a bacterial skin infection, can lead to inflammation and tissue damage in the affected area. This inflammation can sometimes lead to hair loss in the area where the infection is present.
3. Herpes Zoster (Shingles): Shingles is caused by the reactivation of the varicella-zoster virus, which causes chickenpox. Shingles can affect the scalp and cause painful, blister-like lesions. Hair loss might occur in areas where the blisters are present.
4. STDs: Sexually transmitted diseases like syphilis can also lead to patchy hair loss not only on your head but also in other areas like eyebrows and even the inside of your nostrils.

A General Health Note

Every surgical procedure requires the patient to be in good health before it can be performed. Hair transplant surgery is no different. Patients over 45 years old must have an ECG/EKG check to confirm the health of their heart and identify any pre-existing medical conditions that may affect the success of the surgery.

Stay tuned here for more updates regarding non-genetic causes of hair loss, including aging, physical trauma, medical treatments and medicines, environmental, and more.