Alopecia in Female Athletes Using Androgenic and Anabolic Steroids: Pathophysiology and Management

The review article discusses the increasing use of performance-enhancing substances (PES), particularly androgenic and anabolic steroids (AAS), among female athletes and its association with female pattern hair loss (FPHL). It highlights the lack of research focused on FPHL compared to male pattern hair loss, despite the significant physical and psychosocial impacts on women. The article emphasizes the need for clinicians to educate female athletes on the risks of AAS, manage FPHL effectively, and the importance of timely diagnosis and treatment to prevent further hair loss. The authors call for more research on the compounded psychosocial issues faced by female athletes using PES, such as hair loss and body image concerns.