How can you tell the difference between telogen effluvium & androgenic alopecia? also, is there any harm in taking spironolactone if you suspect androgenic alopecia, but actually have telogen effluvium?

Androgen DHEAS testing, Pull/pluck test with microscopic exam, side effects of some drugs as some of them can cause. tel. eflu. family history can differentiate between the two. All drugs should be taken under the supervision of your dermatologist

Dr Menter agreed

Telogen effluvium is a sudden generalized thinning of scalp hair, usually after a traumatic event, illness, or after taking certain medications. Androgenic alopecia is a gradual loss of hair, usually on the front and top of the scalp, and generally runs in families. I would not take spironolactone without proper evaluation and supervision by a dermatologist or other qualified physician.