ASSESSMENT OF SERUM VITAMIN D3, THYROID-STIMULATING HORMONE, AND CALCIUM LEVELS IN DIFFUSE HAIR LOSS AMONG PRE AND POST MENOPAUSAL FEMALES

Abstract

Introduction: Diffuse hair loss is a common concern among women and may be influenced by hormonal, nutritional, and metabolic factors. Vitamin D3, thyroid hormones, and calcium play critical roles in hair follicle cycling and growth.

Aims: To evaluate the serum levels of vitamin D3, thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH), and calcium in pre- and post-menopausal females presenting with diffuse hair loss and assess their potential association with the severity of hair loss.

Materials and Methods: This cross-sectional observational study was conducted at the Department of Biochemistry, Index Medical College, Indore, from August 2022- October 2025. It included 200 pre- and post-menopausal women presenting with diffuse hair loss, excluding those with scarring alopecia, systemic illnesses, or medications affecting hair or mineral metabolism.

Results: In our study of 200 women with diffuse hair loss, post-menopausal women had a higher prevalence of vitamin D3 deficiency (82% vs. 65%, p = 0.008) and abnormal TSH levels (35% vs. 22%, p = 0.03) compared to pre-menopausal women. Sufficient vitamin D3 levels were less common in post-menopausal women (3% vs. 10%, p = 0.04), while low calcium levels showed no significant difference between the groups (12% vs. 8%, p = 0.34). Mean serum levels mirrored these findings, with lower vitamin D3 (14.30 ± 5.70 ng/mL vs. 18.50 ± 6.20 ng/mL), higher TSH (3.60 ± 1.40 µIU/mL vs. 2.80 ± 1.10 µIU/mL), and slightly lower calcium (8.90 ± 0.60 mg/dL vs. 9.10 ± 0.50 mg/dL) in post-menopausal women.Conclusion: Vitamin D3 deficiency and thyroid dysfunction are common among women with diffuse hair loss and may contribute to its pathogenesis. Routine screening for these biochemical parameters in pre- and post-menopausal females presenting with hair loss may aid in early diagnosis and targeted management.