Disorders of the Scalp and Hair

The document from 2018 examines various scalp and hair disorders, noting that characteristics and prevalence of these conditions vary among ethnic groups. It states that androgenetic alopecia (AGA) is the most common form of hair loss, with a higher incidence in Caucasians and a lower incidence in Asians and dark-skinned Africans, and that its prevalence increases with age. The document outlines the genetic predisposition of AGA and its management, which includes topical minoxidil and oral finasteride or dutasteride. It also covers hypertrichosis and hirsutism, detailing their management through hair removal and treatment of underlying causes. Additionally, the document discusses alopecia areata, an autoinflammatory disorder with treatments such as corticosteroids and JAK inhibitors, and scarring alopecias, which are common in black-skinned populations due to hairstyling practices. For traumatic alopecias, early intervention can reverse hair loss, but persistent cases may lead to permanent loss and require treatments to stabilize fibrosis and scarring, including topical corticosteroids, minoxidil, and potentially surgical options.