The Series of Tests To Expect
The Process
Investigations
1. Assessment of medical history
A thorough assessment of your medical history is first done to ensure there are no underlying medical condition/s which may be contributing to your hair loss. Some of these conditions include:
- Anaemia
- Hyperthyroidism or Hypothyroidism
- Autoimmune conditions such as Rheumatoid Arthritis or Lupus
- Scalp conditions like Psoriasis or Seborrheic Dermatitis
- Psychiatric conditions such as Trichotillomania and other anxiety disorders
2. Assessment of Family history
You will be asked regarding hair loss in immediate and extended family members to ascertain the degree of genetic predisposition. This usually helps us determine how your hair loss will progress.
3. Physical and Microscopic examination
A physical and microscopic examination of your hair aims to aid in determining your hair loss diagnosis. This involves looking at the scalp with the naked eye as well as a more detailed view of the scalp called ‘videotrichoscopy’ which allows a magnified view of your scalp and hair. If a case of excessive shedding is suspected, a “pull test”will be done. This is done by grasping small sections of hair ( approximately 40-60 strands) from different parts of the scalp and gently tugging.
In cases whereby a nutritional deficiency is suspected, a blood test may be required for a more accurate understanding of hair loss. This series of hair loss blood tests will assist us in correcting the deficiencies ( if any). These tests include
- Anaemia Profile
- Thyroid function test
- Antinuclear antibodies (ANA)
- Erythrocyte sedimentary rate (ESR)
- Rheumatoid factor (RhF)
- Ferritin ( iron storage)
- Vitamins B12 and folate
- Zinc/Copper
- Total Vitamin D