Androgenetic Alopecia
September 2004
in “
PubMed
”
TLDR Androgenetic alopecia, or hair loss, is influenced by hormones and genetics, and can be treated with medications like minoxidil, finasteride, or hormone therapy, with effectiveness evaluated after 6 months.
The 2004 review discussed the pathophysiology of androgenetic alopecia, which is associated with the action of androgens on the hair follicles of the scalp. This action can be influenced by circulating hormone levels and genetic predisposition. The progression of alopecia was classified according to Norwood for males and Ludwig for females. Hormonal investigation was only recommended for females in cases of suspected or identified hyperandrogenia. Diagnosis and therapeutic follow-up were primarily clinical, but could be assisted by a trichogram. Treatment options included local or general approaches. Local treatment involved a 2 to 5% minoxidil lotion for both genders. For males, a 5 alpha reductase 2 inhibitor, finasteride, was effective at a dose of 1 mg/day. For females, oestroprogestatives were used, if not contraindicated, in combination with an anti-androgen, either cyproterone acetate or spironolactone. Treatment effectiveness was evaluated after 6 months.
