In this lesson we will look at the diagnostic approach to alopecia with an emphasis on focal alopecia. First, we will look at the most common conditions which will make up the majority of the cases you see in first opinion practice. We will then look at more unusual conditions which you may encounter, but less frequently.
By the end of this lesson you should be able to:
- Describe the pathogenesis of alopecia;
- Recognize the clinical features of focal alopecia;
- Select the appropriate diagnostic tests to investigate alopecia;
- Diagnose the common causes of focal alopecia using a problem-solving approach;
- Name specific conditions that result in focal alopecia.
