Alopecia and Hirsutism: Androgen-Dependent Skin Abnormalities in Women

The 1982 document discusses the androgen-dependent skin abnormalities of alopecia and hirsutism in women. It identifies androgenic alopecia as a common cause of hair loss in women, characterized by diffuse front-vertical thinning, and notes its similarity to male baldness patterns. The role of familial and genetic factors is acknowledged, though the inheritance pattern is not clear. The paper highlights the necessity of clinical examination to rule out endocrine issues, especially since severe male-pattern baldness in women may be linked to high androgen levels. Treatment options such as cyproterone acetate are mentioned for early-stage androgenic alopecia, with a nod to the potential of topical anti-androgens. Hirsutism, defined as coarse pigmented hair growth in women, is also discussed, with treatment involving hormonal and cosmetic methods. The document underscores the importance of patient education and reassurance, emphasizing that androgenic alopecia is a normal biological process and most women experience minimal hair thinning throughout their lives.