TLDR The document suggests that more research is needed to confirm if baldness can indicate a higher risk of severe COVID-19 in men.
The document discusses the hypothesis by Wambier et al. that there is an association between SARS-CoV-2 infectiveness and the androgen pathway, which could explain the higher male mortality rate from COVID-19. They suggested that antiandrogen treatment, including 5-α reductase inhibitors, could have therapeutic benefits. They also proposed the "Gabrin sign" to identify patients at higher risk for severe COVID-19 symptoms based on the presence of androgenetic alopecia (AGA). However, the accuracy and validity of their studies have been questioned, particularly the identification and severity grading of AGA. The document also mentions that other risk factors for severe COVID-19 in younger men without pre-existing medical conditions are being explored, such as loss-of-function variants of X-chromosomal TLR7 associated with impaired type I and II interferon responses. The authors suggest that before establishing an eponym like the Gabrin sign, confirmation of the observation by an independent party of investigators is needed.
4 citations,
August 2020 in “Journal of The American Academy of Dermatology” Hair loss link to COVID-19 severity likely due to other factors.
6 citations,
July 2020 in “Journal of The American Academy of Dermatology” Hair loss link to severe COVID-19 unclear.
119 citations,
May 2020 in “Journal of The American Academy of Dermatology” Most COVID-19 patients in hospitals have androgenetic alopecia, more in men, suggesting a link between androgen sensitivity and severe COVID-19 symptoms.
5 citations,
May 2020 in “Dermatologic Therapy” 5-alpha reductase inhibitors might worsen lung recovery in COVID-19 patients, suggesting a pause in their use.
May 2024 in “Journal of clinical medicine” Spironolactone is safe for treating female hair loss, but the safety of other drugs is uncertain.
110 citations,
August 2016 in “Drugs” Minoxidil is the only FDA-approved topical drug for treating male or female pattern hair loss, and other medications like finasteride and dutasteride can also increase hair growth.
Hormonal treatments can help with hair loss, acne, and excess hair growth, but it takes 3-6 months to see results and patients should know the possible side effects.
49 citations,
February 2019 in “The Journal of Clinical Endocrinology and Metabolism” Use "female pattern hair loss" term, assess androgen excess, treat with minoxidil and other medications if needed.
124 citations,
July 2012 in “Archives of Dermatological Research” Targeting androgen receptors could be a promising way to treat skin disorders with fewer side effects.
