Management of telogen effluvium (intithar al-sha'r) through unani intervention: A case report

Background

Telogen Effluvium is a prevalent cause of diffuse hair loss that significantly impacts emotional well-being and quality of life. Conventional treatments often fail to provide complete resolution and may be associated with adverse effects and poor adherence. In the Unani medical system, diffuse hair loss is termed Intithar al-Sha’r and is attributed to an imbalance in temperament (Su’-i-Mizaj), particularly ghalba-e-safrāwī mizāj. This report presents a successful case of Telogen Effluvium managed using a holistic Unani therapeutic approach. Case Presentation: A 24-year-old female presented with severe hair loss persisting for three months, onset following a febrile illness five months prior. She had no history of thyroid dysfunction, polycystic ovary syndrome, or androgenetic alopecia. Physical examination revealed pallor with stable vital signs and unremarkable systemic findings. Scalp examination demonstrated diffuse thinning with a positive hair pull test at multiple sites, without scarring, scaling, or central part widening. Nails, eyebrows, eyelashes, and body hair were normal. The clinical diagnosis was Telogen Effluvium (Intithar al-Sha’r).