ALOPECIA - HISTOLOGIC DIAGNOSIS BY TRANSVERSE SECTIONS

Histologic evaluation for alopecia can be difficult and in part can be attributed to confusing categorization and limited information derive d from examination of traditionally prepared biopsy specimens, The tra nsverse section technique has many advantages, and with experience is the preferable method for evaluating specimens for alopecia, Using thi s technique, numerous follicles can easily be seen in one tissue profi le allowing evaluation of follicular density, follicular unit morpholo gy, and follicular growth dynamics, ie, anagen-telogen ratio. Specimen s are categorized as scarring or nonscarring alopecia, and further dia gnostic criteria discussed herein assist the pathologist in making spe cific diagnoses of nonscarring and scarring alopecias, Scarring alopec ia may be primary or secondary, and primary scarring alopecias are fur ther classified as lymphocyte-associated and neutrophil-associated. Al though the clinical impression is very important in diagnosing alopeci a, transversely sectioned biopsy specimens can greatly aid the diagnos is and management of patients with alopecia. (C) 1996 by W.B. Saunders Company