How to get a proper diagnosis

I went to a dermatologist last week because I have been slowly losing my hair for about 6 months. I recently noticed the bald spots. The dermatologist did a series of blood tests (thyroid, iron, hormones, etc) and they all came out normal. I am meant to go back in about 2-3 weeks to see if there is any improvement or decline. She said she might to a biopsy then if there is no improvement. She seems pretty sure that it is Telogen Effluvium purely based on the fact I had major surgery last June. She also mentioned me trying Rogaine or cortisone shots. I want a real diagnosis. Is there anything I should I ask for? What is the usual series of tests for diagnosis? Thanks!!

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Replies to This Discussion

Permalink Reply by Aida Ravaie-O'Sullivan on April 19, 2010 at 10:33pm
Hi Jaime,
I had similar problem like you, last year. The difference is, I lost my hair in two months! But I had lots of blood tests and came back, everything was normal. I was frustrated because my GP said that I was perfectly healthy. Anyway, I went to my hairdresser for 15 years, and as soon as she saw my bald spots, she said that I got alopecia, and she asked me return to my GP and tell her this. So, the next day I went, and had head biopsy straight away and refer my to dermatologist. Found out that yes I was affected by Alopecia Areata, I shaved my hair straight away (and at the same time my eye brows and lashes gone), and I only used Hair A-gain, similar like Rogaine but cheaper for 6 months, and yes thank God, lots regrowth and now I have my hair back.
Permalink Reply by Leah England on October 26, 2010 at 7:15pm
Aida, do you think you'll have to use the Hair-again forever??

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