Androgenetic Alopecia

Androgenetic alopecia (AGA) is a common form of hair loss that affects both men and women, but is less severe in females and never progresses to full baldness. It is characterized by a gradual reduction in the duration of the anagen (growth) phase, coupled with follicular miniaturization over successive cycles. Diagnosis is usually made from clinical findings alone, but a biopsy may be helpful in certain cases. Specific therapy aims to promote hair regrowth and slow further thinning, but all medical therapies may need to be used indefinitely to maintain their effects. Treatment options include finasteride, minoxidil, systemic hormonal therapy, antiandrogen therapy, dutasteride, surgical micrografting, and camouflage. The histological features of AGA include a reduced number of hairs, miniaturization, and a T:V ratio of 2:1 or less.