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Telogen Effluvium — SCE Dermatology MCQ

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HardHair DisordersTelogen EffluviumSCE Dermatology

Diffuse shedding begins ten weeks after bereavement. The pull test is positive, scalp examination is otherwise normal and ferritin and thyroid function are satisfactory. Which counselling statement best describes uncomplicated acute telogen effluvium?

Educational content. Not a substitute for clinical judgement or local policy.

Reveal the answer and explanation

Correct answer: C — Shedding usually settles within six months, but previous hair volume returns later

Explanation lettering: E = shown as C · C = shown as D · D = shown as E

E is correct. A trigger commonly shifts an increased proportion of follicles into telogen, with shedding becoming apparent around two to three months later. In uncomplicated acute telogen effluvium, active shedding usually lasts three to six months after the trigger has resolved, while visible restoration of former volume can take additional months because new anagen hairs must lengthen. Follicles are not destroyed, so permanent loss is not expected. Telogen is measured in months, not three years, and a normal ferritin neither defines chronic disease nor guarantees that no other trigger exists. Persistent shedding beyond six months or patterned density loss should prompt reassessment for chronic telogen effluvium, androgenetic alopecia, medicines and systemic causes.

Reference: BAD telogen effluvium information: https://www.bad.org.uk/pils/telogen-effluvium