Diagnosis of Hair loss

Doctor diagnoses male pattern or female pattern baldness based on its typical appearance. Determining the cause of other types of hair loss simply by observation is sometimes difficult. Several tests can be used to correctly diagnose the condition of the patient. These tests are

1. Hair pull test / Hair pluck test
2. Trichogram
3. Microscopic hair shaft analysis
4. Global Photograph
5. Scalp Biopsy

Classic male pattern baldness is usually diagnosed based on the appearance and pattern of the hair loss. Any atypical hair loss may be caused by other medical disorders.

A skin biopsy or other procedures may be needed to diagnose other disorders that cause loss of hair.

Hair analysis is not accurate for diagnosing nutritional or similar causes of hair loss. However, it may reveal substances such as arsenic or lead.

Female pattern baldness is usually diagnosed based on:

1. Ruling out other causes of hair loss
2. The appearance and pattern of hair loss
3. Medical history of patient

The doctor will examine for other signs of too much male hormone (androgen), such as:

1. Abnormal new hair growth, such as on the face or between the belly button and pubic area.
2. Changes in menstrual periods and enlargement of the clitoris
3. New acne

Analyzing the hair itself does not accurately diagnose nutritional or similar causes of hair loss, although it may reveal substances such as arsenic or lead.