Scalp Disorders & Trichology Flashcards

A client who wears tight braids consistently develops hair loss along the hairline. This is classified as:

Answer: Traction alopecia

Traction alopecia results from prolonged tension on the hair follicles, commonly caused by tight hairstyles like braids or ponytails.

What term describes excessive hair growth in areas where hair is normally absent or minimal in women?

Answer: Hirsutism

Hirsutism refers to excessive hair growth in androgen-sensitive areas in women, often caused by hormonal imbalances.

The catagen phase of hair growth lasts approximately:

Answer: 2–4 weeks

The catagen (transitional) phase is brief, lasting approximately 2–4 weeks, during which hair growth stops and the follicle shrinks.

Which structure supplies nutrients to the hair follicle and supports hair growth?

Answer: Dermal papilla

The dermal papilla, located at the base of the follicle, contains blood vessels that supply nutrients essential for hair growth.

Scutula (cup-shaped crusts with a musty odor on the scalp) are characteristic of:

Answer: Favus (tinea favosa)

Favus (tinea favosa) is a severe fungal infection producing distinctive cup-shaped crusts (scutula) with a mousy or musty odor.

A barber notices a client's hair breaks near the scalp with a beaded appearance. This structural defect is known as:

Answer: Monilethrix

Monilethrix is a hereditary disorder causing alternating thick and thin nodes along the hair shaft, giving it a beaded appearance and causing fragility.

Which of the following scalp conditions is contagious and should NOT be treated in a barbershop?

Answer: Tinea capitis

Tinea capitis is a contagious fungal infection; barbers must refuse service and refer the client to a physician.