Androgenic Alopecia - Androgenetic
Androgenetic alopecia In men, or male pattern baldness, is recognized increasingly as a physically and psychologically harmful medical condition. Androgenetic alopecia affects at least half of white men by the age of 50 years. Although androgenetic alopecia does not appear to cause direct physical harm, hair loss can result in physical harm because hair protects against sunburn, cold, mechanical injury, and ultraviolet light. Hair loss also can psychologically affect the balding individual and can Influence others' perceptions of him. A progressive condition, male pattern baldness is known to depend on the presence of the androgen dihydrotestosterone - DHT - and on a genetic predisposition for this condition. Medicines, hair transplantation, and cosmetic aids have been used to manage male pattern baldness. Two US Food and Drug Administration-approved hair-loss drugs - the potassium channel opener minoxidil and the dihydrotestosterone synthesis inhibitor finasteride -- are somewhat effective for controlling male pattern baldness with long-term daily use. Regardless of which treatment is chosen for alopecia, defining and addressing the patient's expectations regarding therapy are paramount in determining outcome.
Losing one's hair can be a devastating experience, particularly because it develops suddenly and the loss is difficult to hide. Patients who have difficulty with the psychosocial impact of losing their hair should speak to a healthcare provider about their feelings. Providers can offer support and may recommend that a patient work with a therapist, clinical psychologist, or support group; individual and group therapy can help patients adjust and cope with hair loss, and may also provide tips on cosmetic coverings. In addition, patients can contact organizations such as the National Alopecia Areata Foundation ( ) and Alopecia UK ( ) for information on alopecia areata and support resources.