DIAGNOSTIC VALUE OF TRICHOSCOPY IN THE DIFFERENTIAL DIAGNOSIS OF VARIOUS FORMS OF ALOPECIA
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Keywords:
trichoscopy, alopecia, differential diagnosis, dermoscopy, hair loss, scarring alopecia, androgenetic alopecia.Abstract
Alopecias of various origins present a significant diagnostic challenge in dermatological practice. Trichoscopy, a non-invasive method for visualizing the scalp, has become a key tool in recent years for the early and accurate diagnosis of hair loss.
Objective. To determine the modern capabilities of trichoscopy in the differential diagnosis of various forms of alopecia and to assess its diagnostic value.
Materials and Methods. An analytical review of 28 publications from 2019–2025 was conducted, including original studies and meta-analyses on trichoscopic diagnostic criteria in alopecias. Key morphological features, their sensitivity and specificity, as well as the role of the method in monitoring treatment effectiveness were analyzed.
Results. It was established that in androgenetic alopecia the most informative features are hair shaft diameter variability and the perifollicular halo; in alopecia areata - yellow and black dots, “exclamation mark” hairs; in scarring forms - absence of follicular openings and vascular changes. According to systematic reviews, the average diagnostic accuracy of trichoscopy is 90–95%. New digital technologies and artificial intelligence enhance the objectivity and reproducibility of interpretation.
Conclusions. Trichoscopy is an essential component in the diagnosis of alopecias, allowing differentiation of their forms, determination of disease activity, and assessment of treatment effectiveness. Standardization of terminology and the development of digital platforms will create new opportunities for integrating the method into clinical practice.
