A 28-year-old woman has diffuse hair thinning, predominantly in the crown, 3 months after delivery of her first child. Trichogram shows >25% telogen hairs. The most likely diagnosis and appropriate management are:
- A Androgenetic alopecia — initiate oral minoxidil 0.25 mg/day
- B Postpartum telogen effluvium — reassurance; typically self-resolves in 3–6 months ✓
- C Alopecia areata — intralesional triamcinolone injection
- D Hypothyroid alopecia — initiate levothyroxine immediately
Correct answer: B. Postpartum telogen effluvium — reassurance; typically self-resolves in 3–6 months
Explanation
Postpartum telogen effluvium (TE) is the most common cause of diffuse hair loss 2–4 months after delivery, triggered by the hormonal shift (drop in oestrogen) after parturition which synchronises hairs from the prolonged anagen phase of pregnancy into telogen. It is self-limiting and typically resolves within 6–12 months. Thyroid function tests and ferritin are obtained to rule out contributing factors, but reassurance is the primary management. Trichogram showing >25% telogen hairs confirms TE.
Reference: Neena Khanna Illustrated Synopsis of Dermatology & STD, 6th ed.
High-yield for: NEET PGINI-CETNExTFMGEUSMLEPLABMRCP
Written and medically reviewed by the StethoPrep medical team.