Question

multiple choice question

the medical term for thinning of the hair and baldness as hair follicles shrink and produce thin, wispy hairs is ______.

albinism
pheomelanin
alopecia
eumelanin

Explanation:

Analyze the question prompt

The question asks for the medical term that describes the thinning of hair and baldness occurring as hair follicles shrink and produce thin, wispy hairs.

Evaluate the first option

Albinism is a genetic condition characterized by a partial or complete lack of melanin pigment in the skin, hair, and eyes. It does not refer to hair thinning or baldness.

Evaluate the second and fourth options

Pheomelanin and eumelanin are types of melanin pigments. Eumelanin provides brown and black colors, while pheomelanin provides yellow and red colors. Neither term refers to hair loss.

Evaluate the third option

Alopecia is the medical term for hair loss or baldness, which can occur when hair follicles shrink and produce progressively thinner, shorter, and less visible hairs.

Select the correct term

Based on the definitions, alopecia is the correct medical term for the described condition.

Answer:

• (A) albinism
• (B) pheomelanin
• (C) alopecia (Correct answer)
• (D) eumelanin