Medical Treatment of Non-Scarring Alopecia

The 2006 document reviewed medical treatments for noncicatricial alopecia, particularly androgenetic alopecia, alopecia areata (AA), and telogen effluvium. It reported that minoxidil was effective in increasing hair counts in 54% of patients after 120 weeks, and finasteride improved hair count in men, with 1553 men aged 18 to 41 participating in studies. However, finasteride was not effective for 20% to 30% of men and required indefinite use. Combination therapy and a minimum treatment duration of 6 to 12 months were suggested. The document also covered the management of female-pattern alopecia and the use of hair transplantation. For telogen effluvium, it noted the lack of controlled studies for treatment efficacy, while for AA, it discussed various treatments and the potential for future research to improve management. The importance of patient education and the role of organizations like the National Alopecia Areata Foundation were emphasized. The conclusion stressed the need for a better understanding of hair follicle cycling and focused research to enhance treatment for AA and telogen effluvium.