Androgenetic alopecia

Androgenetic alopecia, also known as pattern hair loss, is a genetically determined, patterned, progressive loss of hair from the scalp.

Men typically present with hair thinning in the temporal areas (producing a characteristic M shape) that advances to the crown (vertex) area as the alopecia progresses. Women usually have more diffuse thinning on the crown area, and less commonly present with a male-type pattern.

Diagnosis is clinical and is based on recognizing the pattern of hair loss.

Management options include medical treatment (e.g., topical minoxidil, oral 5-alpha reductase inhibitor), surgery (hair transplants), and cosmetic aids such as camouflage and/or hairpieces. Treatment options for men and women may differ.

A genetically determined, patterned, progressive loss of hair from the scalp.

The term androgenetic alopecia is generally used only when referring to male-pattern hair loss. In men, hair loss is caused by androgen-mediated follicular miniaturization that leads to fine, short, nonpigmented, vellus hair formation.

Female-pattern hair loss is the preferred term in women because the extent to which females share the androgenic pathway is unclear. The pathogenesis of female-pattern hair loss has not been well characterized.

The term "pattern hair loss" is used in this topic when referring to hair loss affecting both sexes.