Hair Loss Therapies & Definitions | Medicine Study Set

Androgenetic alopecia (male pattern baldness)

Follicle shrinks over time

What causes hair loss?

• Hormonal changes (pregnancy, menopause)

• Physiologic stress (trauma)

• Chronic illness (SLE, RA, thyroid)

• Medications (ACE inhibitors, beta blockers)

• Dietary changes/deficiencies

• Local trauma

• Genetics

What is the clinical presentation of androgenetic alopecia?

- Gradual hair thinning

- Loss of hair in frontal

hairline, vertex, and

occipital regions

- No signs of inflammation

or signs of scarring

A pt is excluded for self treatment of hair loss and referred to a physician if...

• under 18 years of age

• Pregnancy or breastfeeding

• Recent discontinuation of oral contraceptives

• Scaling, sunburn, or other damage to the scalp

• Hair loss accompanied by itching or burning of the scalp

• Hair loss related to a history of endocrine dysfunction, medical treatments, and dietary deficiencies

• Skin lesions that indicate autoimmune disease or infection

• Hair loss in patches

• Sudden hair loss

• Hair loss in patients with no family history

• Inflammation of the scalp

• Loss of eyebrows or eyelashes

Non-pharmacologic therapies for androgenetic alopecia include:

Cosmetic camouflage (wigs, toupees, hair weaves, hair sprays, gels, colorants, perms) and surgical transplantation

What is the goal of therapy when treating androgenetic alopecia?

to restore patient's appearance

What pharmacologic therapy can be used for androgenetic alopecia?

Minoxidil (Rogaine)

Minoxidil (Rogaine)

Treats alopecia androgenetic of the scalp by increasing cutaneous blood flow and stimulating hair follicles

- available as 5% foam and 2%/5% solution

How should a female patient take minoxidil? (dose)

Apply 1/2 a capful of 5% foam once daily or apply 1mL of 2% solution twice a day

If a patient has sensitive skin...

they should use the minoxidil 5% foam because the solution contains alcohol

How should a male patient take minoxidil? (dose)

Apply 1/2 a capful of 5% foam two times a day or apply 1 mL of 2% or 5% solution two times a day

How long does it take minoxidil to take effect?

several months

What are the common side effects associated with taking minoxidil for androgenetic alopecia?

local irritation, itching, dryness or scaling at application site.

(note: hypertrichosis may occur w/ long-term use)