Old Head Injury and Hair Loss: the Impact and Solutions

Old head injuries and hair issues?

Doctor, I had a head injury from a bicycle accident during elementary school, which resulted in a lump.
I didn't see a doctor at the time and let it heal naturally, but the lump is still there, and that area has no hair growth at all.
What could be the reason for this? Additionally, could the large lump have any impact on my health? If I want to have it removed, which specialist should I consult?

Kai Kai, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2016/05/09

Dr. Gao Chunde reply Neurology

There may be subcutaneous tissue or bone proliferation outside the skull.
It is advisable to consult with a plastic surgeon to determine the nature of the mass and to decide on the appropriate management.

Reply Date: 2016/05/09

More Info

When it comes to old head injuries and their potential impact on hair loss, it is essential to understand the underlying mechanisms that can lead to such outcomes. Based on your description, it seems that you experienced a significant head injury during childhood, which resulted in a noticeable swelling (hematoma) and subsequent hair loss in that area.
The primary concern with head injuries, particularly those that result in swelling or hematomas, is the potential damage to the hair follicles and surrounding tissues. When the scalp is injured, the trauma can disrupt the normal function of hair follicles, leading to conditions such as scarring alopecia. Scarring alopecia occurs when inflammation or injury causes the hair follicles to be replaced by scar tissue, which can prevent hair regrowth in the affected area. This is likely the reason for the bald patch you are observing now.

In your case, the persistent swelling in the area of the old injury could be a residual hematoma or scar tissue that has formed as a result of the initial trauma. While it is not uncommon for such swelling to persist for an extended period, it is crucial to monitor it for any changes. If the swelling is hard, painful, or continues to grow, it may warrant further investigation.
Regarding your concerns about potential health impacts from the swelling, it is generally unlikely that a localized hematoma or scar tissue would have systemic effects on your overall health. However, if you experience symptoms such as headaches, dizziness, or any neurological changes, it would be prudent to seek medical attention.

To address your concerns about the hair loss and the persistent swelling, I recommend consulting with a dermatologist or a specialist in hair restoration. A dermatologist can evaluate the affected area, assess the condition of your hair follicles, and determine whether the hair loss is due to scarring alopecia or another condition. They may also perform a biopsy if necessary to confirm the diagnosis.

If the diagnosis indicates that the hair follicles are indeed damaged and unable to regenerate hair, you may want to explore options such as hair transplant surgery. This procedure involves relocating healthy hair follicles from other areas of your scalp to the bald patch, potentially restoring hair growth.

In summary, the hair loss you are experiencing is likely related to the old head injury and the resulting damage to the hair follicles. The persistent swelling may be a remnant of the injury, but it is essential to monitor it for any changes. Consulting with a dermatologist will provide you with the best course of action to address both the hair loss and the swelling. They can guide you through the appropriate treatments and potential surgical options if necessary.

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