Anagen effluvium is induced by all except –
**Core Concept**
Anagen effluvium is a type of diffuse hair loss that occurs due to the interruption of the hair growth cycle. It is characterized by the cessation of hair growth and the shedding of hairs in the anagen phase, which is the active growth phase of hair follicles. This condition is often caused by systemic factors that affect the hair follicle.
**Why the Correct Answer is Right**
Anagen effluvium is induced by factors that damage the rapidly dividing cells of the hair follicle, such as chemotherapy agents, radiation therapy, and certain medications. These agents disrupt the normal growth cycle of hair follicles, leading to the cessation of hair growth and shedding of hairs in the anagen phase. The mechanism of anagen effluvium involves the inhibition of cell division and the induction of apoptosis in the hair follicle cells.
**Why Each Wrong Option is Incorrect**
* **Option A:** Chemotherapy agents, such as cyclophosphamide and doxorubicin, are known to induce anagen effluvium. Therefore, this option is incorrect because it is a correct cause of anagen effluvium.
* **Option B:** Radiation therapy is also a well-documented cause of anagen effluvium, particularly in the scalp. Therefore, this option is incorrect because it is a correct cause of anagen effluvium.
* **Option D:** Certain medications, such as anthracyclines and taxanes, can also induce anagen effluvium. Therefore, this option is incorrect because it is a correct cause of anagen effluvium.
**Clinical Pearl / High-Yield Fact**
Anagen effluvium is a common side effect of chemotherapy and radiation therapy, and it can also be caused by certain medications. It is essential to recognize this condition early and to manage it effectively to prevent permanent hair loss.
**Correct Answer:** A.