There is no clear association between low serum ferritin and chronic diffuse telogen hair loss.

BACKGROUND Low iron stores are considered a possible cause of chronic diffuse telogen hair loss in women. Estimation of serum ferritin is recommended as part of the initial assessment when women present with chronic diffuse telogen hair loss, and iron supplementation therapy is commonly recommended for those found to have low iron stores. OBJECTIVES To evaluate the relationship between low serum ferritin ( 20 micro g L-1. Cessation or reversal of hair loss was not seen in any of these women. CONCLUSIONS No direct relationship between low serum ferritin and hair loss can be established. The usefulness of serum ferritin in the routine investigation of women with chronic diffuse telogen hair loss is unclear, as is the role of iron supplementation therapy in the management of hair loss.