Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome: From Bedside to Bench

Hair loss may be linked to blood flow issues, but DHT is considered the main cause. Treatments used include finasteride, RU58841, minoxidil, vitamin D3, microneedling, and dutasteride, but hair loss persists.

Concerns about the long-term safety of VDPHL01, an extended-release minoxidil, due to potential risks similar to Cantu syndrome, were raised, highlighting the lack of monitoring for chronic connective tissue changes. The conversation suggests that while the treatment may improve hair growth, it could lead to issues not detected in short-term trials.

A 27-year-old male with diffuse hair loss, including the donor area, did not respond to finasteride, dutasteride, or minoxidil. He suspects his hair loss may be linked to a mild connective tissue disorder, possibly affecting the structural support of hair follicles, rather than being purely hormonal.

Minoxidil's effectiveness varies due to differences in sulfotransferase enzyme levels in the scalp, affecting people with conditions like ASD, liver disease, and androgenic alopecia. Treatments like topical tretinoin, microneedling, and using minoxidil sulfate instead of regular minoxidil can improve results for those with low enzyme levels.

A user shared their 75-day progress using oral minoxidil, finasteride, ketoconazole shampoo, and dermastamping for retrograde alopecia, reporting significant improvement and increased body hair without side effects. They also discussed quitting smoking and the potential correlation between early beard growth and male pattern baldness.

Oral minoxidil may cause facial bloating and dark circles, making some users feel they look older. Some consider reducing the dosage or switching treatments due to these side effects.