Anagen effluvium

Anagen effluvium (pronunciation: an-uh-jen eh-floo-vee-uhm) is a specific form of hair loss that occurs during the anagen phase of the hair growth cycle.

Etymology

The term "anagen effluvium" is derived from the Greek word "anagen", meaning "upward growth", and the Latin word "effluvium", meaning "outflow".

Definition

Anagen effluvium is a condition characterized by the rapid loss of hair that is in its growth phase, or anagen phase. This is in contrast to telogen effluvium, where hair loss occurs in the resting phase.

Causes

Anagen effluvium is most commonly caused by chemotherapy and radiation therapy, which damage the hair follicle and disrupt the anagen phase. Other potential causes include severe infection, malnutrition, and certain medications.

Symptoms

The primary symptom of anagen effluvium is sudden and rapid hair loss, typically occurring within days to weeks of exposure to the causative agent. The hair loss is often widespread, affecting all areas of the body, not just the scalp.

Treatment

Treatment for anagen effluvium primarily involves addressing the underlying cause. If the hair loss is due to chemotherapy or radiation therapy, the hair typically regrows once treatment is completed. In some cases, topical treatments such as minoxidil may be used to stimulate hair growth.

Related Terms

• Alopecia
• Hair follicle
• Hair growth cycle
• Telogen effluvium

External links

• Medical encyclopedia article on Anagen effluvium
• Wikipedia's article - Anagen effluvium

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