What causes androgenetic alopecia?

What causes androgenetic alopecia?

Researchers have determined that this form of hair loss is related to hormones called androgens, particularly an androgen called dihydrotestosterone. Androgens are important for normal male sexual development before birth and during puberty.

What is androgenic alopecia?

Androgenetic alopecia is a common form of hair loss in both men and women. In men, hair is usually lost in a well-defined pattern, beginning above both temples and is usually referred to as male-pattern baldness. Over time, the hairline recedes to form a characteristic ‘M’ shape.

What is the difference between androgenic alopecia and androgenetic alopecia?

Androgenetic Alopecia The majority of women with androgenetic – also called androgenic – alopecia have diffuse thinning on all areas of the scalp. (Men rarely have diffuse thinning but instead have more distinct patterns of baldness.) Some women have a combination of two pattern types.

How is androgenetic alopecia diagnosed?

The diagnosis is usually based on a thorough history and a focused physical examination. In some patients, selected laboratory tests or punch biopsy may be necessary. Topically administered minoxidil is labeled for the treatment of androgenetic alopecia in women.

What is the best treatment for androgenic alopecia?

There are currently two FDA-approved pharmacologic treatments for androgenic alopecia: minoxidil and finasteride. Minoxidil topical solution was the first of the FDA-approved treatments for androgenic alopecia to be placed on the market.

Where does androgenetic alopecia start?

Androgenetic alopecia is gradual in onset and occurs after puberty. In men, it begins as bitemporal thinning of frontal scalp first then involves the vertex.

Can a blood test detect alopecia?

Alopecia areata is a disease that causes the hair to fall out in small patches. When the immune system attacks the hair follicles, the results are hair loss. Some blood tests used to test for alopecia is the ANA test, Anemia #1 Baseline Blood Test Panel, and the CRP.

Is there cure for androgenetic alopecia?

Can we stop androgenic alopecia?

While androgenic alopecia cannot be prevented, it can be treated and its progression can be slowed. “Androgenic alopecia can start at any age. Unfortunately, by the time hair loss is noticeable 50 percent of hairs have already fallen from the scalp.

Which alopecia is permanent?

Cicatricial alopecia . This is a “scarring” type of alopecia. It involves inflammation that destroys hair follicles. The destroyed follicles get replaced by scar tissue, resulting in permanent hair loss in the area. Sometimes the condition brings on symptoms like itching, pain, and a sensation of heat.