Androgenetic Alopecia

Androgenetic alopecia is an extremely common disorder affecting 70% of men and 40% of women in their life. Men present with gradual thinning in the temporal areas, producing a reshaping of the anterior part of the hairline and progress to vertex balding. Women with androgenetic alopecia usually present with diffuse thinning on the crown. Only 2 drugs (minoxidil and finasteride) currently have FDA–approved indications for treatment of androgenetic alopecia. Due to the frequency and the often significant impairment of life perceived by the affected patients, diagnosis and treatment of androgenetic alopecia is particularly important. This article briefly reviews the definition, diagnosis and treatment options of androgenetic alopecia.