Test for Baldness
Hair loss, or alopecia, can be caused by many things, including genetics, trauma, hormone changes, aging, illnesses such as cancer and skin conditions such as scalp ringworm. Naturally, baldness occurs more often in men than in women, and if you're concerned that you're losing an excessive mount of hair, your physician can conduct an examination to check for signs of balding.
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Initial Examination
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Your physician will ask for your full medical history, whether you're currently suffering from any medical conditions, and your family history. You will also undergo a physical examination and your scalp will be checked for any signs of hair loss, if there is a pattern to your hair loss, and if any hairs appear to have been broken off. After the initial examination, your physician will conduct other tests to see if there is another underlying cause for your hair loss.
Pull Test
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During a pull test, your physician will try to gently extract several of your hairs to see how many actually pull out. Your doctor may be checking for a condition known as telogen effluvium. According to the American Osteopathic College of Dermatology, telogen effluvium is a condition caused by some sort of trauma to your system, such as psychological stress, childbirth or illness. When you suffer from telogen effluvium, your hair can easily be removed by the handfuls.
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Tests for Illnesses
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Your physician may screen you for certain medical conditions, such as thyroid disease, diabetes and lupus, as illnesses can be a factor in or cause of hair loss. You may also be asked if you're taking medication, as they can cause hair loss, particularly those taken for depression, heart issues, high blood pressure and arthritis.
Genetic Testing
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HairDX is a company that offers you the chance to determine your risk of developing baldness. The company was founded by researchers and specialists who specifically work in genetics and hair therapy. Tests are offered for both men and women as a preventative measure. According to the HairDX website, if a test determines that you have a high likelihood of balding or thinning of your hair, you can begin treatments to preserve what hair remains on your scalp.
Other Tests
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A punch biopsy may be performed when your physician cannot determine the exact cause of your baldness with other tests. She will remove a small section of skin from your scalp and close the incision with sutures. The skin will then be examined to try to determine what is causing your baldness. Scrapings can be taken from your skin, or a few hairs may be plucked to see if you're suffering from an infection.
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