Normal and Abnormal Hair Growth in Old Age

Abstract

A short account is given of the development of the hair follicles, the types of hair, the follicular cycle and the normal sequence of hair patterns from infancy to old age. The normal patterns of hair growth in the elderly are considered in greater detail. The forms of diffuse alopecia common in the older patient are reviewed with particular emphasis on telogen effluvium and on drug-induced disturbances of the hair cycle. Problems of diagnosis are discussed.