Common Cause Of Hair Loss Research Articles

Frequency, severity and related factors of androgenetic alopecia in dermatology outpatient clinic: hospital-based cross-sectional study in Turkey.

BACKGROUNDAndrogenetic alopecia (AGA) is a patterned hair loss occurring due to systemic androgen and genetic factors. It is the most common cause of hair loss in both genders. In recent years, many studies investigating the relation between systemic diseases and androgenetic alopecia presented controversial results.OBJECTIVESIn this study we aimed to investigate the frequency of androgenetic alopecia, the presence of accompanying systemic diseases, the relation between body mass index and androgenetic alopecia severity and the association of hyperandrogenemia signs with androgenetic alopecia in patients who referred to our outpatient clinic.METHODSPatients who referred to our clinic between October 2013 and May 2014 were included in the study. Diagnosis of androgenetic alopecia was made upon clinical findings. Presence of seborrhea and acne in both genders, and hirsutism in women, were examined. Age, gender, smoking habit and alcohol consumption, age of onset of androgenetic alopecia, family history, accompanying systemic diseases and abnormalities of menstrual cycle were recorded.RESULTS954 patients (535 women, 419 men) were included in the study. Androgenetic alopecia prevalence found was 67.1% in men and 23.9% in women. Androgenetic alopecia prevalence and severity were correlated with age in both genders (p=0,0001). Frequency of accompanying systemic diseases were not significantly different between patients with and without androgenetic alopecia (p=0,087), except for hypertension, which was significantly more frequent in men with androgenetic alopecia aged between 50 and 59 years. Study limitations: Despite the exclusion of other causes of alopecia, differentiation of Ludwig grade 1 AGA from telogen effluvium based on clinical features alone is difficult.CONCLUSIONSIn our study the rate of androgenetic alopecia was found to be higher than the other studies made in Asian and Caucasian populations.

Multi-therapies in androgenetic alopecia: review and clinical experiences

Androgenetic alopecia (AGA) is a genetically determined progressive hair-loss condition which represents the most common cause of hair loss in men. The use of the medical term androgenetic alopecia reflects current knowledge about the important role of androgens and genetic factors in its etiology. In addition to androgen-dependent changes in the hair cycle, sustained microscopic follicular inflammation contributes to its onset. Furthermore, Prostaglandins have been demonstrated to have the ability in modulating hair follicle cycle; in particular, PGD2 inhibits hair growth while PGE2/F2a promote growth. Due to the progressive nature of AGA, the treatment should be started early and continued indefinitely, since the benefit will not be maintained upon ceasing therapy. To date, only two therapeutic agents have been approved by the Food and Drug Administration and European Medicines Agency for the treatment of AGA: topical minoxidil and oral finasteride. Considering the many pathogenetic mechanisms involved in AGA, various treatment options are available: topical and systemic drugs may be used and the choice depends on various factors including grading of AGA, patients' pathological conditions, practicability, costs and risks. So, the treatment for AGA should be based on personalized therapy and targeted at the different pathophysiological aspects of AGA.

Management of hair loss associated with endocrine therapy in patients with breast cancer: an overview.

Endocrine therapy-induced hair loss (ETIHL) associated with aromatase inhibitors and tamoxifen treatment is currently mostly reported but remained an unresolved therapeutic issue in patients with breast cancer (BC) since the number of studies regarding the management is limited in literature. Herein we investigated the possible causes of this clinical problem and its relation with endocrine therapies widely used for BC survivors and made some modest practical recommendations in light of the literature review in order to provide an optimal management. On the basis of literature findings, common causes of hair loss apart from endocrine therapies should be investigated with an initial evaluation workup and then should be corrected, if observed. Treatment with topical 5-alpha reductase inhibitors and supplementation of Vitamin C and omega-3 fatty acids are likely appeared to be the most appropriate treatment agents for ETIHL without causing an adverse effect on BC prognosis. However, more prospective, randomised, placebo-controlled studied are required in order to confirm our results and also identify the clinical effects of this problem on patients with BC.

Alopecia in general medicine

Appreciation of different types of hair loss (alopecia) that may be encountered in hospital medicine is important to ensure accurate diagnosis and management, identify underlying medical conditions or treatments that may present with increased hair loss, recognise autoimmune alopecias and their associations, and understand the significant psychological impact of hair loss on an individual. This article discusses common causes of hair loss, as well as those conditions that may be associated with systemic disease, relevant to a general physician.

Classifications of Patterned Hair Loss: A Review.

Patterned hair loss is the most common cause of hair loss seen in both the sexes after puberty. Numerous classification systems have been proposed by various researchers for grading purposes. These systems vary from the simpler systems based on recession of the hairline to the more advanced multifactorial systems based on the morphological and dynamic parameters that affect the scalp and the hair itself. Most of these preexisting systems have certain limitations. Currently, the Hamilton-Norwood classification system for males and the Ludwig system for females are most commonly used to describe patterns of hair loss. In this article, we review the various classification systems for patterned hair loss in both the sexes. Relevant articles were identified through searches of MEDLINE and EMBASE. Search terms included but were not limited to androgenic alopecia classification, patterned hair loss classification, male pattern baldness classification, and female pattern hair loss classification. Further publications were identified from the reference lists of the reviewed articles.

Assessment of semen quality in patients with androgenetic alopecia in an infertility clinic

Abstract Background Androgenetic alopecia (AGA) is a common cause of hair loss in men. It is associated with the risk of cardiovascular disease and metabolic syndrome. Additionally, it is suggested that premature AGA could be considered equivalent to that of polycystic ovary syndrome in women. Objective The aim of this study was to examine the relation between AGA and the quality of semen. Methods The semen specimens were collected from 203 young adult men included in the study. AGA was classified according to the Hamilton baldness scale, modified by Norwood. All participants were classified into two categories: normal to mild AGA (equivalent to Norwood types I–II) as Group I and moderate to severe AGA (equivalent to Norwood types III–VII) as Group II to assess the difference in the quality of sperms between the two groups. Results There were no statistically significant differences in the men's age and body mass index scores among the groups. For both Groups I and II, the history of smoking and varicocele was not statistically different ( p = 0.62 and p = 0.11, respectively). All parameters of sperm including volume, density, motility, and morphology were significantly lower in participants with moderate to severe AGA than those with normal to mild AGA ( p p p p Conclusion This study showed that young adult men with moderate to severe AGA have poor quality of semen compared with those who have normal to mild AGA.

Hair’s the Question*: Anagen Hair Loss

Anagen effluvium is a less common cause of hair loss, yet it can mimic or even coexist with the more recognizable alopecias. Test your knowledge of this rarer, but remarkably relevant type of hair loss. Bear in mind that a detailed knowledge of the different phases of the hair growth cycle is useful in answering these questions.

Diagnostic challenges in determining alopecia areata

Alopecia areata (AA) is the second most common cause of hair loss. It is crucial for the clinician to differentiate AA from other types of hair loss as it differs in prognosis and treatment. The diagnosis of AA can be made clinically; however, there are many nuances making an exact diagnosis challenging. This paper describes the differential diagnoses of both scarring and non-scarring hair loss that may mimic AA. It also highlights the diagnostic tests and pertinent findings that help distinguish AA from other types of hair loss.

An update on diagnosis and treatment of female pattern hair loss

Female pattern hair loss (FPHL) is the most common cause of hair loss in women. It has a greater psychosocial morbidity than that of male pattern hair loss. The clinical presentation of FPHL is distinctive with hair thinning usually confined to the crown region of the scalp. The frontal hair line is usually spared; however, it can be affected in some patients. Miniaturization of terminal scalp hair and shortening of the anagen growth phase of the hair cycle results in growth of thinner and shorter hair fibers. Diagnosis is usually made clinically. Recent advances in digital image analysis has increased the use of dermatoscopy in the diagnosis of FPHL and as a consequence, reduced the need for doing skin biopsies. Many medical and surgical treatments are currently available with various success rates. In this review article, we discuss the major recent advances in the diagnosis and management of FPHL.

Erratum to: Clinical Efficacy of a Cosmetic Treatment by Crescina® Human Follicle Stem Cell on Healthy Males with Androgenetic Alopecia

Introduction Androgenetic alopecia (AGA) is the most common cause of hair loss among males, characterized by progressive thinning of the scalp hairs and defined by various patterns. The main factors underling hair loss in AGA are genetic predisposition and increased sensitivity of the hair follicles to androgens, leading to a shortening of the anagen phase. In the present study, the authors investigated the efficacy of a commercially available cosmetic lotion, Crescina® HFSC (human follicle stem cell; Labo Cosprophar AG, Basel, Switzerland), in promoting hair growth and in decreasing hair loss.

Clinical Efficacy of a Cosmetic Treatment by Crescina® Human Follicle Stem Cell on Healthy Males with Androgenetic Alopecia

IntroductionAndrogenetic alopecia (AGA) is the most common cause of hair loss among males, characterized by progressive thinning of the scalp hairs and defined by various patterns. The main factors underling hair loss in AGA are genetic predisposition and increased sensitivity of the hair follicles to androgens, leading to a shortening of the anagen phase. In the present study, the authors investigated the efficacy of a commercially available cosmetic lotion, Crescina® HFSC (human follicle stem cell; Labo Cosprophar AG, Basel, Switzerland), in promoting hair growth and in decreasing hair loss.MethodsA placebo-controlled, randomized trial was carried out on healthy males suffering from alopecia grade II to IV. Anagen rate and hair resistance to traction (pull test) were assessed after 2 and 4 months of treatment using phototricogram and pull test technique.ResultsCrescina® HFSC applied for 4 months was effective in promoting hair growth and in decreasing hair loss. After 2 and 4 months of treatment, the anagen rate was increased by 6.8% and 10.7%, respectively. Hair resistance to traction was decreased by 29.6% and 46.8%, respectively.ConclusionsThe present study demonstrated the positive effect of Crescina® HFSC in modulating the activity of the hair follicle and promoting hair growth.

Telogen effluvium

Telogen effluvium (TE) is one of the most common causes of diffuse nonscarring hair loss. In its acute form, it generates a lot of anxiety in the patient, which can be significantly allayed with a confident diagnosis. In its more chronic form, however, the hair loss may go unnoticed for long periods of time. Here in, the dermatologist's role in differentiating it from the more common patterned hair loss is significant. Differentiating TE from other causes of diffuse nonscarring hair loss can indeed be a daunting task and TE is often used as a waste basket diagnosis. A number of factors have been implicated in the causation of TE, however, clear evidence in their support is lacking. The role of stress as a causative factor as well as the result of hair loss needs to be adequately understood. This review aims at summarizing our current level of knowledge with respect to this very common cause of hair loss. An attempt is made to help the readers reliably differentiate TE from other causes of diffuse nonscarring hair loss. The possible causative factors, pathogenetic mechanisms, clinical presentation, and possible treatment options are discussed.

Female pattern hair loss

Female pattern hair loss (FPHL) is a common cause of hair loss in women characterized by diffuse reduction in hair density over the crown and frontal scalp with retention of the frontal hairline. Its prevalence increases with advancing age and is associated with significant psychological morbidity. The pathophysiology of FPHL is still not completely understood and seems to be multifactorial. Although androgens have been implicated, the involvement of androgen-independent mechanisms is evident from frequent lack of clinical or biochemical markers of hyperandrogenism in affected women. The role of genetic polymorphisms involving the androgen and estrogen receptors is being increasingly recognized in its causation and predicting treatment response to anti-androgens. There are different clinical patterns and classifications of FPHL, knowledge of which facilitates patient management and research. Chronic telogen effluvium remains as the most important differential diagnosis. Thorough history, clinical examination, and evaluation are essential to confirm diagnosis. Patients with clinical signs of androgen excess require assessment of biochemical parameters and imaging studies. It is prudent to screen the patients for metabolic syndrome and cardiovascular risk factors. The treatment comprises medical and/or surgical modalities. Medical treatment should be initiated early as it effectively arrests hair loss progression rather than stimulating regrowth. Minoxidil continues to be the first line therapy whereas anti-androgens form the second line of treatment. The progressive nature of FPHL mandates long-term treatment for sustained effect. Medical therapy may be supplemented with cosmetic concealment in those desirous of greater hair density. Surgery may be worthwhile in some carefully selected patients.

Hair loss in children: common and uncommon causes; clinical and epidemiological study in jordan.

Background:Alopecia is a common complaint in dermatology clinics, and can be caused by a number of conditions, and has patterns that are different from that seen in adults.Aim of Study:No previous studies investigating the clinical types of hair loss in Jordan and its epidemiology. The ultimate aim was to provide a guide for the evaluation of hair loss commonly occurring in childhood in our environment.Patients and Methods:A total of 2800 children were seen at the dermatology clinics (Karak teaching hospital and Mutah university medical center) during January 2009 to October 2013 complaining of various clinical dermatological symptoms.Results:Of these patients, 210 children were complaining of hair loss and scalp disorders (7.5% of pediatric dermatology cases seen in Jordan). The most common presentation was asymptomatic patchy hair loss (40%). Other symptoms were scaly scalp (22.9%), diffuse hair loss (21.4%), change in hair texture and color (8.1%), pruritus (5.7%), and pain in the scalp (1%). Tinea capitis was the commonest causes of hair loss (40.0%) followed by alopecia areata (26.2%) and telogen effluvium (17.6%). Other common causes of hair loss were observed in this study, these include chronic diffuse form of hair loss, trichotillomania, and traction alopecia.Conclusions:As has been observed in this study, hair problem may be due to important nutritional deficiency such as iron and zinc elements, and this is very important problem to think of especially in developing countries. Therefore, hair examination by a pediatrician or dermatologist is an important part of the physical examination.

Investigation of selected cytokine genes suggests that IL2RA and the TNF / LTA locus are risk factors for severe alopecia areata

Alopecia areata (AA) is the second most common cause of hair loss in humans, and has a genetically complex inheritance. The hypothesis that AA is autoimmune in nature is supported by previous studies. These report an association with specific HLA alleles, as well as genetic variants of other genes implicated in autoimmunity, such as various cytokine genes. However, these cannot yet be considered proven susceptibility loci, as many of these association findings were derived from small patient samples. To investigate the association between AA and selected cytokine genes using a sample of 768 patients with AA and 658 controls of Central European origin. Eleven single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) from cytokine genes implicated in previous AA studies were genotyped. These genes were IL1B, IL1A, IL1RN, MIF, IFNG and the TNF/LTA gene region. We also genotyped 15 SNPs selected from cytokine genes that have shown significant association with other autoimmune diseases. These genes were IL10, IL36RN, IL12B, IL6, IL2, IL23, IL2RA and IL4R. Significant association was found for two variants within both IL2RA and TNF/LTA. In the overall sample, the most significant results were obtained for the IL2RA variant rs706778 (P = 0·00038) and the TNF/LTA locus variant rs1800629 (P = 0·0017). In subgroup analyses, according to severity, age at onset and family history these effects were stronger in the severely affected patients, with the lowest P-values being obtained for rs706778 (P = 3·8 × 10(-6) ). Our results point to the involvement of IL2RA and the TNF/LTA region in the aetiology of AA, in particular severe AA, and provide further support for the hypothesis that AA is autoimmune in nature.

Pattern Hair Loss in Men

Androgenetic alopecia is a common cause of hair loss in both men and women. The exact pathogenesis of androgenetic alopecia is not well understood. As the name implies, the role of androgens and genetic susceptibility predisposes to pattern hair loss due to gradual conversion of terminal hair into vellus hair. Male and female pattern hair loss are clinically distinct entities but histologically indistinguishable. The role of sex hormones in females is less understood. This article discusses current understanding of the etiopathogenesis of hair loss in men, diagnostic tests available, and its medical management.

The effect of a 1550 nm fractional erbium–glass laser in female pattern hair loss

Female pattern hair loss (FPHL) is the most common cause of hair loss in women, and its prevalence increases with advancing age. Affected women may experience psychological distress and social withdrawal. A variety of laser and light sources have been tried for treatment of hair loss, and some success has been reported. The purpose of this study was to determine the efficacy and safety of a 1550 nm fractional erbium-glass laser in treatment of female pattern hair loss. Twenty eight ethnic South Korean patients with varying degrees of FPHL were enrolled in the study. Patients received ten treatments with a 1550 nm fractional Er:Glass Laser (Mosaic, Lutronic Co., Ltd, Seoul, South Korea) at 2-weeks intervals using the same parameters (5-10 mm tip, 6 mJ pulse energy, 800 spot/cm(2) density, static mode). Phototrichogram and global photographs were taken at baseline and at the end of laser treatment, and analysed for changes in hair density and hair shaft diameter. Global photographs underwent blinded review by three independent dermatologists using a 7-point scale. Patients also answered questionnaires assessing hair growth throughout the study. All adverse effects were reported during the study. Twenty seven patients completed a 5-month schedule of laser treatment. One patient was excluded during treatment due to occurrence of alopecia areata. At the initial visit, mean hair density was 100 ± 14/cm(2) , and mean hair thickness was 58 ± 12 μm. After 5 months of laser treatment, hair density showed a marked increase to 157 ± 28/cm(2) (P < 0.001), and hair thickness also increased to 75 ± 13 μm (P < 0.001). Global photographs showed improvement in 24 (87.5%) of the 27 patients. Two patients (7.4%) reported mild pruritus after laser treatment; however, these resolved within 2 h. A 1550 nm fractional erbium-glass laser irradiation may be an effective and safe treatment option for women with female pattern hair loss.

Alteration in Hair Texture Following Regrowth in Alopecia Areata

Alopecia areata is a common cause of hair loss seen in 3.8% of patients in dermatology clinics and in 0.2% to 2.0% of the general US population. The pathology of the disease remains poorly understood. Hair loss in alopecia areata can range from a single patch to 100% loss of body hair. When hair regrowth occurs in alopecia areata, the new hair may demonstrate pigment alterations, but a change in hair texture (ie, curly or straight) has rarely been reported as a consequence of alopecia areata. We report a case of a 13-year-old African American boy who experienced an alteration of hair shape following regrowth after alopecia areata. The new hair recapitulated his hair shape from early childhood. The precipitating factor for a change in hair texture in alopecia areata may be a result of treatment, pathophysiologic changes, or a combination of both. Whether the change is triggered at the level of stem cell differentiation, by cytokine or hormonal influences, gene expression during hair follicle development, a combination of all of these, or an unknown cause is a question that remains to be answered.

An overview of female pattern hair loss

Female pattern hair loss (FPHL) is the most common cause of hair loss in women at any age. Clinical presentation of FPHL differs from its male counterpart, male pattern baldness. Women tend to present earlier with a reduction in hair volume from diffuse thinning over the crown and rarely with fronto-temporal recession. The diffuse hair thinning results from androgen-mediated miniaturization of hair follicles in addition to decrease in hair fiber length. Histologically, hair follicle miniaturization and a decrease in terminal-to-vellus hair ratio are diagnostic features of FPHL, and are also identical to that seen in male pattern baldness. The role of androgens in FPHL has not been clearly established, and most women with androgenetic alopecia have normal serum androgen levels; however, antiandrogen medications can still be effective in the treatment. Several medical treatments are available for the management of FPHL, with variable efficacy. Other measures to camouflage hair loss are popular. Increasingly...

Hair Disorders

There are many causes of hair disorders and it is important to distinguish normal physiological processes from abnormal pathology. It is therefore useful to understand the normal changes associated with the hair follicle cycle, as well as adopting a systematic approach to a patient's presentation. Like many other conditions in dermatology, hair problems can be extremely distressing for the patient and are not always easy to remedy. This article aims to provide an overview of the common causes of hair loss and hair excess and their management in primary care.