Telogen Effluvium with Underlying Female Pattern Hair Loss: A 41-Year-Old Case in Houston & Katy, Texas
When shedding starts suddenly, it can be alarming—especially when there’s also a family history of hair loss. A 41-year-old woman visited Dr. Reena Jogi, board-certified dermatologist and hair loss specialist serving Houston and Katy, Texas, for five months of diffuse hair shedding and thinning.
Case Overview
The patient reported gradual, diffuse hair loss over 4–5 months. She has a paternal family history of hair loss. On exam, dermoscopy showed findings most consistent with telogen effluvium (TE), and a positive hair-pull test on the posterior mid-parietal scalp supported active shedding. Given history and pattern, Dr. Jogi also discussed underlying androgenetic alopecia (AGA) as a contributing factor. A scalp punch biopsy was offered for confirmation but deferred.
What Is Telogen Effluvium?
TE is a non-scarring shedding condition in which a higher-than-normal percentage of hairs shift into the resting (telogen) phase. Triggers often include stress, illness, iron deficiency, thyroid imbalance, medications, or postpartum changes. TE is self-limited in many cases and can improve within months once triggers are addressed. However, when AGA is also present, ongoing maintenance therapy is often needed to preserve density.
Personalized Treatment Plan
After reviewing medical and procedural options, the patient chose a conservative, evidence-based start:
Nutrafol® supplements to support hair growth fundamentals.
Laboratory evaluation (lab slip provided) to screen for common TE triggers (e.g., iron studies, thyroid function, vitamin D).
Topical Minoxidil 5% solution discussed as an at-home option for prolonged cases or if thinning persists.
Education on LLLT (laser helmets), PRP and Alma TED as elective in-office procedures (cosmetic; typically not insurance-covered).
Follow-up planned in 6 months, sooner if shedding worsens or labs reveal treatable deficiencies.
Counseling & Expectations
TE: Usually temporary; improvement often follows correction of the trigger. Mild shedding at treatment start (e.g., with minoxidil) can be normal and self-limited.
AGA: Genetically driven and slowly progressive. Women often show a widened midline part with frontal hairline preservation. Long-term maintenance (e.g., minoxidil, supplements, LLLT; and in some cases spironolactone for women) helps stabilize density.
When to Call: If shedding accelerates, scalp symptoms arise, or medication side effects occur.
Expert Hair Loss Care in Houston & Katy
At Reena Jogi MD (Village Dermatology), we deliver comprehensive diagnostics and customized treatment plans for telogen effluvium, female pattern hair loss, alopecia areata, and more. If you’re noticing increased shedding or thinning, schedule an evaluation in our Houston or Katy, Texas offices to create a plan tailored to your goals.
