Diagnosis and Treatment of Androgenetic Alopecia

Table of Contents

Diagnosis and Treatment of Androgenetic Alopecia (Male Pattern Hair Loss)

Androgenetic alopecia is a common hereditary hair loss condition in men, becoming more pronounced with age. Due to genetic predisposition and the effects of hormones (especially dihydrotestosterone – DHT) on hair follicles, the follicles shrink, leading to weakened hair and eventual hair loss. It can also occur in women, but it manifests as thinning rather than pattern baldness.

Causes and Risk Factors

1. Genetic Predisposition: Individuals with a family history of androgenetic alopecia are at higher risk.

2. Hormones (DHT): DHT, a byproduct of testosterone, shrinks hair follicles, leading to hair loss.

3. Age: Hair loss worsens with age.

4. Stress: Chronic stress can accelerate hair loss.

5. Poor Nutrition: Deficiencies in vitamins and minerals can negatively impact hair health.

Symptoms

In Men: Characterized by a receding hairline and thinning at the crown (vertex).
In Women: Typically appears as overall thinning, but the hairline remains intact.
Thinning Hair: As the hair follicles shrink, the hair that grows becomes thinner and weaker.
Gradual Progression: Hair loss becomes more noticeable over time.

Diagnostic Methods

1. Clinical Examination: Assessment of the hair loss pattern.

2. Trichoscopy: Examination of the hair follicles and structure using a dermatoscope.

3. Pull Test: Checking whether the hair can be easily pulled out.

4. Blood Tests: To check for vitamin deficiencies, thyroid function, and hormone levels.

5. Biopsy: In suspicious cases, a scalp biopsy may be taken.

Treatment Methods

1. Medication

Minoxidil (Topical): Expands hair follicles, reducing hair loss and promoting new hair growth.
Finasteride (Oral): Lowers DHT levels, slowing hair loss.
Dutasteride (Oral): A stronger DHT suppressant, used in cases resistant to Finasteride.
Topical Finasteride/Dutasteride: Used locally to reduce side effects.

2. Mesotherapy: A combination of vitamins, minerals, and amino acids is injected into the scalp to support hair growth.

3. Low-Level Laser Therapy (LLLT): Stimulates hair follicles, reducing hair loss and strengthening hair.

4. Hair Transplant

FUE (Follicular Unit Extraction): Hair follicles are individually extracted and transplanted to areas with hair loss.
DHI (Direct Hair Implantation): Unlike FUE, the follicles are directly implanted, resulting in faster recovery.

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