Is Alopecia common in people with Spina Bifida, specifically Myelomeningocele?

Alopecia is hair loss and it has many potential causes. It can be due to genetics (i.e. male pattern baldness), medication side effects, hair products, hormonal imbalances, or other medical conditions such as scalp infections, autoimmune disorders, pregnancy, or mental health problems.

Alopecia is not directly related to myelomeningocele, but there can be hormonal irregularities as a result of hydrocephalus that may be related to hair loss. Therefore, it would be wise to look for changes in the level of hormones that come from the pituitary gland, as these may occasionally be different for someone with hydrocephalus.

It is also a good idea to ask your doctor or pharmacist if hair loss is a side effect of any medication you are currently taking. Also, think about any new soaps, shampoos, hair gels, perms or other chemicals your hair may have been exposed to.

Most often hair loss is a transient problem and is related to the stress of an illness or pregnancy. Usually the hair thickness returns. Of course, there is some hair loss/thinning commonly associated with getting older. If several family members are thin on top, it would not be surprising that you will follow the same course.

General medical /family doctors and dermatologists can be helpful in determining a cause and any potential treatments for alopecia.