Scalp Disorders & Trichology Flashcards

The telogen phase of the hair cycle is characterized by:

Answer: The hair resting before it is shed

During the telogen (resting) phase, lasting 3–6 months, the hair remains in the follicle but no growth occurs before eventual shedding.

Which vitamin deficiency is most commonly associated with hair loss and poor scalp health?

Answer: Vitamin D

Vitamin D deficiency has been linked to hair follicle cycling disruption and increased hair shedding.

A client has thick, silvery scales on the scalp and elbows with well-defined red plaques. This is most consistent with:

Answer: Psoriasis

Psoriasis presents with well-demarcated red plaques covered by thick, silvery-white scales and commonly affects the scalp and extensor surfaces.

The term 'alopecia totalis' refers to:

Answer: Complete loss of all scalp hair

Alopecia totalis is the complete loss of all hair on the scalp, as opposed to alopecia universalis which affects all body hair.

Which type of hair is the fine, soft, unpigmented hair found on the body before and shortly after birth?

Answer: Lanugo hair

Lanugo is the fine, soft, unpigmented hair that covers the fetus and is usually shed before or shortly after birth.

Folliculitis is best defined as:

Answer: Inflammation of the hair follicles

Folliculitis is inflammation of the hair follicles, typically caused by bacterial infection, most often Staphylococcus aureus.

A condition where the hair grows back into the skin causing inflammation and pustules is called:

Answer: Pseudofolliculitis barbae

Pseudofolliculitis barbae (razor bumps) occurs when curved hairs re-enter the skin after shaving, causing inflammation and pustules.