Commentary: Iron deficiency and hair loss: problems with measurement of iron.
Iron is involved in many critical physiologic processes within the hair follicle, suggesting that iron deficiency could disrupt hair synthesis. However, studies of iron as a cause of hair loss have produced conflicting results. Some of the discrepancies may relate to limitations of assays for iron deficiency. This commentary discusses the sensitivity and specificity of available tests for iron deficiency and presents practical guidelines for testing and supplementation.
Elston
Dirk M
DM
Department of Dermatology, Geisinger Medical Center, Danville, Pennsylvania 17822-5206, USA. Dmelston@geisinger.edu
D000505:Alopecia / Q000150:complications* / Q000378:metabolism*; D018798:Anemia, Iron-Deficiency / Q000150:complications / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000378:metabolism; D015703:Antigens, CD / Q000097:blood; D002624:Chemistry, Clinical / Q000592:standards*; D006454:Hemoglobins / Q000378:metabolism; D006801:Humans; D007501:Iron / Q000097:blood*; D011990:Receptors, Transferrin / Q000097:blood; D012680:Sensitivity and Specificity
D015703:Antigens, CD; C068126:CD71 antigen; D006454:Hemoglobins; D011990:Receptors, Transferrin; D007501:Iron