Aetiology and Pathophysiology of Hair Loss

The prevalence of androgenetic alopecia has not been accurately recorded but it is probably true that, at least in caucasoid races, some degree of transformation of terminal to vellus hair follicles on the vertex from puberty onwards is a universal phenomenon in both sexes, although androgenetic alopecia in women more often assumes a diffuse form. Our knowledge of the pathogenesis of ordinary baldness is far from complete but a genetic predisposition is necessary and androgen production must be present. In general it can be concluded that whatever the level of circulating androgens, free or total, the major genetic factor must reside in the end-organ response – in this case follicular receptivity and reactivity to the androgens delivered to the papilla/matrix unit. The pathophysiology of common baldness is strictly a misnomer as used in clinical practice since only rarely does it signify endocrine disease or other than normal physiological loss. In many patients the problem posed is essentially psychological and this aspect may be so predominant as to cause psychiatric disease.</jats:p

Traumatic disorders of the nail

Like its predecessors, Text Atlas of Nail Disorders, Third Edition is destined to become an invaluable diagnostic tool. The authors comprehensively cover pathologies affecting the toe and finger nails. They profile each pathology, from common to rare disorders, and support them with extensive color photographs. The editors take a differential diagnostic approach to presenting clinical information. These features and more make the book an important resource for dermatologists and podiatrists. The new edition includes: " New diagnostic and therapeutic advances in traumatic nail disorders " Coverage of the use of dermatoscopy in the nail and periungal tissues " Discussion of the role of ultrasonography and magnetic resonance imaging in the diagnosis and presurgical assessment " Increase in the number of 'further reading' references throughout the boo

The Nail in Systemic Diseases and Drug‐Induced Changes

This chapter contains section titled: Cardiac and Circulatory Disorders Connective Tissue Diseases Respiratory Disorders Renal Disorders Hepatic Disorders Gastrointestinal Disorders Nutritional Disorders and Deficiencies Endocrine Disorders Metabolic Disorders Nervous Disorders Immunological Disorders Infectious Diseases (See Chapters 4 and 7) Haematological Disorders Neoplastic Disorders Systemic Drug