Pressure alopecia

Pressure alopecia
Synonyms	Postoperative alopecia, Pressure-induced alopecia
Pronounce	N/A
Specialty	N/A
Symptoms	Hair loss in areas subjected to prolonged pressure
Complications	Possible scarring alopecia if untreated
Onset	Typically within days to weeks after pressure event
Duration	Often temporary, but can be permanent
Types	N/A
Causes	Prolonged pressure on the scalp, often during surgery
Risks	Long surgical procedures, use of hard surfaces, poor positioning
Diagnosis	Clinical evaluation, trichoscopy
Differential diagnosis	Alopecia areata, Telogen effluvium, Traction alopecia
Prevention	Proper padding and positioning during surgery
Treatment	Relieving pressure, topical corticosteroids, minoxidil
Medication	N/A
Prognosis	Good if pressure is relieved early
Frequency	Rare
Deaths	N/A

Pressure alopecia is a form of hair loss that occurs as a result of sustained pressure on the scalp. This condition is most commonly seen in individuals who have been bedridden for extended periods of time, such as those recovering from surgery or suffering from severe illness.

Causes

Pressure alopecia is caused by prolonged pressure on the scalp, which can lead to damage to the hair follicles. This can occur in a variety of situations, including:

• Long-term bed rest
• Wearing tight headgear for extended periods
• Certain hairstyles that pull on the hair

Symptoms

The primary symptom of pressure alopecia is hair loss in the area of the scalp that has been subjected to pressure. This hair loss can be gradual or sudden, depending on the amount of pressure and the length of time it has been applied. Other symptoms may include:

• Redness or inflammation of the scalp
• Tenderness or pain in the affected area
• Changes in the texture or color of the hair

Treatment

Treatment for pressure alopecia primarily involves removing the source of pressure on the scalp. This may involve changing hairstyles, adjusting headgear, or modifying sleeping positions. In some cases, medications may be used to promote hair growth and reduce inflammation.

Prevention

Prevention of pressure alopecia involves avoiding prolonged pressure on the scalp. This can be achieved by:

• Regularly changing positions during long periods of bed rest
• Avoiding hairstyles that pull on the hair
• Wearing loose-fitting headgear

See also

• Alopecia
• Hair loss
• Scalp conditions

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