Correlation between
Scalp Hair Morphology, Haematological Parameters and Glycaemic Status in Individuals
with Diabetes Mellitus
Ganesha Prasad K., Senthil Kumar B., Poovizhi I., Rajasekar M. and Sangeetha S.
Res. J. Biotech.; Vol. 20(7); 47-55;
doi: https://doi.org/10.25303/207rjbt047055; (2025)
Abstract
Diabetes mellitus (DM) is a systemic state or condition that affects several physiological
and physical features of the human body that includes scalp hair morphology and
hair follicles. Present study aimed to study the correlation between scalp hair
features, haematological parameters and glycaemic catalogues in diabetic individuals
in comparison to healthy controls. The study includes 140 participants, with 70
diabetic individuals and 70 healthy controls. Various parameters such as FBS (fasting
blood sugar), PBS (postprandial blood sugar), HbA1c and haematological parameters,
were assessed. Histopathological examination of scalp biopsy was done to find out
the hair morphology and the anagen-to-telogen proportion, was scientifically assessed.
The diabetic individuals showed significant changes in hair characteristics, such
as decrease in thickness and tensile strength. Augmented hair loss and disturbed
growth phase dispersal were observed, with a lesser percentage of hairs in the anagen
phase (60% vs. 80%) and an increased percentage in the telogen phase (28.57% vs.
8.57%).
These modifications reflect the systemic influences of diabetes such as microvascular
problems, long-lasting hyperglycaemia and reduced collagen turnover. Significant
associations were found among poor glycaemic control, as proved by raised levels
of FBS, PBS and HbA1c and hair morphology parameters. Distinguished haematological
variations, such as differences in RBC and haemoglobin levels and further inflammatory
markers level were also detected in the diabetic group.
