Encyclopedia Reference entry Condition

Definition

A condition in which an unusually large number of follicles enter the resting phase simultaneously, producing diffuse shedding some weeks later.

Common triggers include illness, surgery, childbirth, rapid weight loss and severe stress.

Course and management

It is usually self-limiting and resolves once the trigger has passed, though recovery is measured in months.

Persistent or patchy loss should be assessed, as it suggests a different diagnosis.

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