alopecia

(al″ŏ-pē′sh(ē-)ă)

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[Gr. alōpekia, fox mange]
Absence or loss of hair, esp. of the head.

ETIOLOGY
Alopecia may result from serious illness, drugs, endocrine disorders, dermatitis, hereditary factors, radiation, or physiological changes during aging.

TREATMENT
Treatments include drugs, such as minoxidil or finasteride; surgeries, such as hair transplantation; or prostheses (wigs).

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