Hair loss associated with COVID‑19: problem and solutions

Information on the epidemiology, clinical manifestations, prevention and treatment of the new coronavirus infection COVID‑19 is constantly updated. Clinical manifestations of COVID‑19 on the skin have been described, including angiitis, acrodermatitis (acroangiitis), papulo-vesicular rashes, papulosquamous rashes, lichen rosacea, measles-like rash, toxicoderma, exacerbation of chronic dermatoses of the skin, hair and artifical lesions. One of the most significant triggers of hair loss is stress. The global COVID‑19 pandemic has become such a factor for many. To date, there is no complete understanding of the pathogenesis of hair loss associated with COVID‑19. Many authors suggest that both the infection itself and the associated psychoemotional state, and the therapy of the disease, can act as the causes of telogen hair loss and androgenic alopecia in COVID‑19. A number of studies demonstrate a link between androgens involved in the pathogenesis of COVID‑19 and the possible development of androgenic alopecia. Other authors have observed cases of telogen hair loss associated with COVID‑19 disease. In our practice, we also encounter diffuse hair thinning, presumably caused by COVID‑19. Often, patients do not consider it necessary to consult a doctor for hair loss, and for the first time make an appointment only after self-medication is ineffective. Self-treatment attempts that do not give any results can form a negative attitude towards a number of drugs. In this case, the doctor’s task is to adequately assess the patient’s condition and select the optimal therapy regimen for each specific clinical situation.

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