The Female Pattern Hair Loss: Review of Etiopathogenesis and Diagnosis

This document is a review of the etiopathogenesis and diagnosis of female pattern hair loss (FPHL). FPHL is a common form of hair loss that can occur in women of all ages, but is most common in postmenopausal women. The exact cause of FPHL is unknown, but hormonal factors and genetic predisposition are believed to contribute. Diagnosis is typically made through clinical evaluation, but further diagnostic tests may be required depending on patient history and clinical evaluation. These tests may include scalp biopsies, trichograms, phototrichograms/TrichoScan, and laboratory tests. The document also discusses the potential association between FPHL and low ferritin levels, as well as the use of androgen level testing to screen for hyperandrogenic states.