RESUMO
Introduction: Diffuse hair loss is a very common problem in women. The condition has several causes. Anything that interrupts the normal hair cycle can trigger diffuse hair loss. Various studies have shown reduced levels of haemoglobin, serum ferritin, biotin, and thyroid abnormalities to be triggering factors for diffuse hair loss. Supplements of biotin and iron are commonly used in the management of diffuse hair loss in females. However contradictory observational data have so far failed to establish a conclusive evidence about the serum levels of biotin and ferritin. Materials and Methods: This study has been planned to evaluate the role of hemoglobin, thyroid hormones, serum levels of Biotin and Ferritin in female patients with diffuse hair loss of different types. 80 female patients presenting with diffuse hair loss were included in the study after considering the inclusion and exclusion criteria. Ethical clearance was taken from the institutional ethics committee before starting the study. Serum ferritin and serum biotin were estimated using ELISA method. Haemoglobin was estimated using an auto analyzer. Thyroid function test were evaluated using chemiluminiscence method. Results: Reduced haemoglobin was seen in 35 patients. However serum ferritin was reduced in only one patient. Hypothyroidism was detected in 8 patients. Serum biotin was normal in all the patients. However serum biotin was towards the lower limit of normal in many patients. Conclusion: From findings of our study, association of serum ferritin with hair loss is not conclusive and also the role of biotin in hair loss has to be evaluated with further larger studies.