Review of current knowledge and management of androgenetic alopecia

Abstract

Androgenetic alopecia is a disease in which hair loss occurs due to miniaturization of hair follicles. It is a complex cosmetic as well as social, health and economic problem. It leads to a reduced quality of life for patients and contributes to the development of other disorders. The purpose of this paper is to review the available knowledge on treatment methods for this condition.

To analyze the key publications, we searched English-language databases: Google Scholar, PubMed and available reference materials and textbooks, analyzing only publications published after 2012. 31 articles were analized, using the keywords: "androgenetic alopecia", "management", "therapy".

The problem of androgenetic alopecia affects both men and women. It is caused by the negative effects of DHT on the hair papilla, leading to a reduction in hair thickness and number. Current treatment guidelines for this condition focus on the use of oral and topical medications, transplantation or laser therapy. Oral finasteride is effective in reducing the negative effects of DHT on the hair follicle. Recent reports suggest benefits of using finasteride topically, so that side effects are kept to a minimum. When applied topically, minoxidil contributes to an increase in anagen hair. Dutasteride used orally has similar effects to finasteride. Study results indicate its superiority over finasteride. Research indicates the effectiveness of mesotherapy in the treatment of androgenic alopecia, using, among others, platelet-rich plasma, PDRN and dutasteride.