Aetiology and Pathophysiology of Hair Loss

The document discussed androgenetic alopecia, noting that it was common in caucasoid races and involved the transformation of terminal to vellus hair follicles, particularly on the vertex, from puberty onwards. It was observed in both sexes, though women often experienced a diffuse form. The pathogenesis of baldness was not fully understood, but it required a genetic predisposition and the presence of androgens. The key factor was the follicular response to androgens, rather than the level of circulating androgens. The document also highlighted that common baldness was not typically linked to endocrine disease but could have significant psychological impacts, potentially leading to psychiatric issues.