Abstract:Introduction and Background: One of the most prevalent types of hair thinning and loss in females is female pattern hair loss (FPHL), often called androgenetic alopecia in women. Diffuse hair thinning on the scalp, most noticeably in the middle of the scalp, is a common symptom. In order to better understand how hormones may contribute to the development of FPHL, this study will examine the endocrinal profile and trichoscopic characteristics of females affected by the condition.
Materials and Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted at a tertiary care hospital from November 2016 to October 2017 at department of Dermatology, Sambhram Medical College and Hospital, Bangarupet, Kolar, Karnataka, India. A total of 100 female patients (aged 18-45 years) diagnosed with FPHL were included. The diagnosis of FPHL was based on clinical and trichoscopic findings. Detailed endocrine profiling was performed, including measurements of serum testosterone, DHEAS (Dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate), SHBG (sex hormone-binding globulin), and prolactin. Trichoscopic examination was carried out using a handheld dermoscope, and the findings were categorized based on established features associated with FPHL. The results of both the hormonal tests and trichoscopic findings were analyzed for correlations.
Results: The results showed that 72% of the 100 women had higher-than-average serum testosterone levels and 40% had higher-than-average DHEAS levels. These patients' SHBG values were much lower than the controls'. The majority of cases had prolactin levels that were within the normal range. Trichoscopy showed that 32% of patients had yellow spots (indicating follicular inflammation), and that 56% of patients had hair follicles that were much smaller than normal. These are all hallmarks of FPHL. Another finding that suggests persistent androgenic effects on the scalp is perifollicular pigmentation, which was observed in 25% of individuals. Additionally, the existence of miniaturised hair follicles was significantly correlated with high testosterone levels (p = 0.01) in the study.
Conclusion: The findings of this study point to an imbalance in hormones, specifically an increase in testosterone levels, as a major contributor to the aetiology of female pattern hair loss (FPHL). The significance of assessing endocrinal profiles and trichoscopic characteristics in the management of FPHL is highlighted by these findings. To validate the correlation and gain a better understanding of the hormonal mechanisms implicated in FPHL, further research with a bigger cohort and long-term follow-up are necessary.