Stress-Induced Telogen Effluvium in a 45-Year-Old Woman Treated with PRP Planning and Education
Sudden hair loss can be emotionally overwhelming, especially when it begins without warning. At Reena Jogi MD Dermatology in Houston and Katy, we often treat women experiencing telogen effluvium (TE)—a form of temporary hair shedding usually triggered by stress or physiological change. This case highlights a 45-year-old woman whose hair loss began after emotional stress and is now on track for regenerative treatment.
Chief Complaint: Diffuse Hair Shedding for 5 Months
This patient presented with moderate, diffuse scalp hair loss, which had begun suddenly in February 2025. She was not using any treatments at the time of her visit and reported a family history of hair loss (father).
She also mentioned stressful events near the end of 2024, a common trigger for telogen effluvium, where a higher percentage of hairs shift from the growth phase (anagen) to the shedding phase (telogen).
Clinical Examination and Diagnosis
We performed a comprehensive scalp exam using a dermatoscope. Findings included:
Diffuse, non-scarring hair thinning
Positive hair pull test, confirming excessive telogen-phase hair shedding
No inflammation or signs of scarring alopecia
The patient was diagnosed with:
Telogen Effluvium (L65.0)
We emphasized that TE is typically self-limiting, but supportive treatments can help reduce the severity and improve recovery time.
Treatment Plan: Personalized and Multifaceted
After discussing treatment strategies, the patient chose to defer medication for now and focus on Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) therapy, which she plans to initiate in August.
We reviewed the following options:
✅ 1. PRP Therapy
In-office injections using the patient’s own plasma, rich in growth factors
Typically done monthly for 4 sessions, followed by maintenance every 6 months
Can promote regrowth and reduce shedding without hormones or medication
✅ 2. Almated Topical Therapy
Plant-based serum that stimulates follicles using natural bioactives
Safe, non-invasive alternative or complement to PRP
Targets follicular health and scalp nourishment
✅ 3. Stem Cell Therapy (Future Consideration)
Advanced regenerative option using patient-derived follicular stem cells
Processed into a concentrated serum and injected to boost growth
Contains ~35x more growth factors than PRP
✅ 4. Topical Minoxidil (Optional)
Widely used to stimulate hair regrowth
Patient was advised it requires consistent use for 6+ months to see effects
Can be combined with PRP for enhanced results
Patient Education and Expectations
We discussed common side effects of oral treatments:
Oral minoxidil: unwanted facial hair, lightheadedness, swelling
Spironolactone: menstrual changes, breast tenderness, fatigue (not appropriate during pregnancy)
The patient received handouts on PRP, AGA, and Almated, and was encouraged to reach out if symptoms worsen or do not improve within the typical recovery timeline.
Conclusion: Stress-Related Hair Loss Managed with Compassion and Science
This case emphasizes the link between emotional stress and hair shedding, and the importance of offering customizable, patient-centered treatments. At Reena Jogi MD Dermatology, we guide patients through both the emotional and physical recovery of hair loss using leading-edge therapies and holistic care.
If you’re experiencing sudden hair loss and live in Houston or Katy, schedule your consultation today.
