Male Pattern Hair Loss
Male pattern hair loss (MPHL) is the most common type of hair loss in men affecting approximately 50% of men over the age of 50. However, MPHL can begin any time after puberty. Male pattern hair loss is also known as male androgenetic alopecia.
What causes male pattern hair loss?
Male pattern hair loss is caused by a combination of genetic and hormonal factors. A
hormone called dihydrotestosterone (DHT) causes a change in the hair follicles on the scalp.
The hairs produced by the affected follicles become progressively smaller in diameter,
shorter in length and lighter in colour until the follicles eventually shrink completely and
stop producing hair.
What are the symptoms and signs of male pattern hair loss?
Male pattern hair loss is not associated with scalp symptoms. The usual pattern of hair loss
is recession of the frontal hairline and balding on the top of the head. Hairs in the affected
areas initially become smaller in diameter and shorter compared to hairs in unaffected
areas, and eventually disappear altogether.
How is male pattern hair loss diagnosed?
Male pattern hair loss is a clinical diagnosis; in other words, it can be recognised by its
characteristic appearance and distribution.
How is male pattern hair loss treated?
The treatment of MPHL may include:
- Topical minoxidil
- Topical finasteride
- Low-dose oral minoxidil
- Oral 5α-reductase inhibitors e.g., finasteride and dutasteride
- Dutasteride micro-injections
- Platelet-rich plasma
- Hair transplantation
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