Definition of Alopecia, traumatic

Alopecia, traumatic: Hair loss caused by injury to the scalp. Common causes include the use of caustic hair straighteners, especially those that include lye as an ingredient; stress traction injury from tight rollers and braiding; overheating of the hair shafts; and compulsive pulling out of hair (trichotillomania).

Source: MedTerms™ Medical Dictionary
http://www.medterms.com/script/main/art.asp?articlekey=9465
Last Editorial Review: 3/19/2012