Condition · Also: female pattern hair loss

Androgenic alopecia

Gradual hair thinning, in women often across the crown, influenced by androgens and genetics.

Gradual hair thinning, in women often across the crown, influenced by androgens and genetics.

Also known as: female pattern hair loss

Androgenic alopecia, or female pattern hair loss, is a common cause of gradual scalp hair thinning. In women it typically affects the crown while preserving the frontal hairline.

Androgen sensitivity and genetics both contribute. Evaluation helps rule out other causes of hair loss.

Related terms

Hyperandrogenism

Elevated androgen activity in women, producing signs such as acne, excess hair, or scalp hair loss.

Hirsutism

Excess coarse, dark hair growth in women in a male-typical pattern.

Minoxidil

A topical (and sometimes oral) medication used to treat pattern hair loss.

Spironolactone

A diuretic with anti-androgen effects sometimes used for hormonal acne and hirsutism.

Source

MedlinePlus: Hair Loss

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