The trichogram is an easy and semi-invasive method, useful for evaluating different types of hair loss in daily practice. To date, there is no standardized methodology on how to collect and perform the exam. The use of a liquid interface between the slide and the coverslip to read the trichogram under optical microscopy varies widely in the literature. Among the alternatives, transparent enamel base coat is an inexpensive, accessible, and practical option, providing the examiner with proper visualization of the hair shafts with minimal air bubbles formation.

Keywords: Alopecia; Hair diseases; Scalp dermatoses

Although little reported in daily practice, the use of systemic retinoids can cause changes in the shape, color, and texture of hair shafts. We report a case of a patient treated with isotretinoin for acne vulgaris who experienced new growing curly hair. Such hair changes are recognized during therapy with oral retinoids; however, isotretinoin-induced modifications on the hair fiber curvature are extremely rare.

Keywords: Hair; Isotretinoin; Pharmacological treatment

Merkel cell carcinoma is a rare and aggressive neuroendocrine skin tumor usually presenting as a single lesion in the head or neck region. We report a case of atypical topography and presentation, with multiple and simultaneous tumors on the left leg of rapid progression associated with palpable inguinal lymphadenopathy and diagnostic confirmation by histopathology and immunohistochemistry. Exeresis of the left inguinal lymph node and skin lesions with a safety margin was performed.

Keywords: Carcinoma Merkel cell; Merkel cells; Merkel cell polyomavirus

Female pattern hair loss (FPHL) is one of the most frequent complaints in dermatological practice. It affects up to 50% of climacteric and postmenopausal women. Despite multiple therapies available nowadays, some patients are refractory to conventional treatments, requiring the association of second-line therapies to obtain good aesthetic results. This paper aims to show the advantages of microneedling of the scalp for such cases by reporting the case of a 48-years-old patient who failed to the association of topical minoxidil and oral finasteride therapy.

Keywords: Alopecia; Attachment disorder; Combined modality therapy; Hair diseases