Book excerpt: Trichology is the science of the structure, function and diseases of the human hair. This book is a comprehensive guide to the diagnosis and treatment of diseases and disorders of the hair and scalp. Divided into six sections, the text begins with an overview of hair and the normal scalp, factors controlling hair growth and changes that occur during the aging process. The next section discusses diagnostic trichology methods including microscopy and trichoscopy. The following chapters detail the diagnosis and treatment of numerous hair disorders covering both clinical and surgical procedures, for common and more complex conditions. A chapter on recent advances in surgical management is included. The final section discusses interdisciplinary issues in the management of hair disorders such as paediatric, psychiatric, gynaecologic and endocrinologic liaison therapy. Each chapter begins with a ‘key messages’ box and concludes with a summary of the topic. The book is highly illustrated with clinical photographs, diagrams and tables. Key points Comprehensive guide to the diagnosis and management of diseases and disorders of the hair and scalp Covers both clinical and surgical treatment methods Features discussion on liaison therapy between different medical disciplines Highly illustrated with clinical photographs, diagrams, tables and boxes