Female Pattern Hair Loss: a clinical and pathophysiological review

Abstract

Female Pattern Hair Loss or female androgenetic alopecia is the main cause of hair loss in adult women and has a major impact on patients' quality of life. It evolves from the progressive miniaturization of follicles that lead to a subsequent decrease of the hair density, leading to a non-scarring diffuse alopecia, with characteristic clinical, dermoscopic and histological patterns. In spite of the high frequency of the disease and the relevance of its psychological impact, its pathogenesis is not yet fully understood, being influenced by genetic, hormonal and environmental factors. In addition, response to treatment is variable. In this article, authors discuss the main clinical, epidemiological and pathophysiological aspects of female pattern hair loss.

INTRODUCTION

Etymologically, the word "alopecia" comes from the Greek άλώπηξ (alōpēx) , which means "fox". It is an allusion to the constant hair loss suffered by these animals during life. According to the Brazilian-Portuguese Spelling Vocabulary (VOLP), alopecia should not be marked with an accent (paroxytone stress) due to the influence of Latin (alopecia). The term is also registered this way among the health science descriptors (DECS) for scientific indexing in Brazil.^1-3

The description of the classical clinical pattern of baldness in men is known since antiquity. As an example, we may cite Hippocrates' (400 BC) observation that eunuchs did not develop baldness. Later, Joseph Plenck, in his book "Doctrina de Morbis Cutaneis" (Vienna, 1776) (Vienna, 1776) identified, in these cases, the miniaturization of hair follicles, which he called "calvities". He also distinguished the disease in two ways, according to its extension: universalem e partialem; and in ten ways according to its cause: febrisequa, puerperarum, morborum exantematicorum, acrimoniosa, phtisicorum, a debilitate nervosa, fenum, hereditaria, a vapore mercurii and a caufa externa.⁴ However, the diffuse balding process (affecting mainly women) still causes confusion in its nomenclature nowadays.⁵

Initially, the term "diffuse alopecia in women" was widely used to characterize the disease.^6,7 After 1942, when Hamilton demonstrated of the involvement of male hormones in the development of classic pattern baldness in men, the term androgenetic alopecia was established to emphasize the hormonal and genetic factors associated with the development of the disease.^8,9 Because diffuse pattern alopecia (which often affects women) was thought to be a variant of the same entity, the term female androgenic alopecia or female pattern baldness, started to be used.⁷

Although the follicular changes that lead to alopecia are similar between men and women, clinical presentation and response to antiandrogen therapy are different. In addition, the participation of androgens in the development of female pattern baldness has not yet been fully elucidated. Given these differences in relation to male pattern baldness, the term Female Pattern Hair Loss (FPHL) has been preferred over female androgenic alopecia.⁵ In this paper, we adopt the term FPHL to name baldness in women and male pattern alopecia (MPA) to name baldness in men. Despite this division, women may eventually present baldness similar to the male pattern and vice versa.

FPHL is characterized as a non-scarring diffuse alopecia, evolving from the progressive miniaturization of hair follicles and subsequent reduction of the number of hairs, especially in the central, frontal and parietal scalp regions (Figure 1).¹⁰

FIGURE 1.

Female Pattern Hair Loss. Diffuse thinning of the hairs in the frontal and parietal regions, preserving the anterior hair implantation line

FPHL is the condition that most commonly leads to hair loss in adult females. Its prevalence increases with age and the disease shows an inconsistent response to treatment.¹¹ These elements compromise body image and strongly affect self-esteem, negatively impacting the patients' quality of life.

EPIDEMIOLOGY

Hair loss and hair thinning complaints are common in dermatological practice. According to a census conducted by the Brazilian Society of Dermatology in 2006 with 36,253 female patients, non-scarring alopecia (unspecified) was one of the ten most common diagnoses.¹⁴

The frequency of FPHL varies among population groups and increases with age. However, a comparison between prevalence studies is hampered by the lack of universally accepted criteria for the diagnostic definition of the disease.¹⁰

In general, FPHL has its onset during the reproductive years. More severe cases of the disease are already noticeable at puberty. However, there is a greater demand for treatment among patients aged 25-40 years. There is a second peak incidence at menopause, between 50 and 60 years of age.^10,15,16

Since the disease has a slow and progressive course, studies considering only clinical criteria usually identify cases with marked reduction of hair volume and show modest prevalence among young people. Nevertheless, if more sensitive diagnostic procedures, such as dermoscopic identification of hair miniaturization, start to be used, the prevalence of FPHL might become higher in all age groups.¹⁷

In 2001, a US study conducted with 1,008 Caucasoid women revealed a 3% prevalence in the third decade of life. Prevalence showed a gradual increase with age, reaching 32% in the ninth decade of life. Overall prevalence was 19%.¹⁸

In 2001, a study conducted in England with 377 patients showed a 6% prevalence among women under 50 years of age. The highest prevalence was found among women over 70 years of age: 38%.¹⁹

In 2005, an Australian study conducted with 717 women found a 13% prevalence in the third decade of life, and a 54% prevalence in the eighth decade of life. Overall prevalence was 32%.²⁰

A study conducted with 4601 Korean women in 2001 found an overall prevalence of 5.6% and progressively higher frequencies with increasing age.²¹

In 2010, a population study involving 8446 Chinese women found similar prevalence rates to the ones found in the Korean study.²²

A recent study conducted in Taiwan with 26,226 women showed lower overall prevalence of FPHL in Caucasoids. However, FPHL prevalence in Caucasoid women was still higher than in Korean or Chinese women.²³ In addition to prevalence, the study also sought to identify possible risk factors associated with FPHL. The authors found a positive association between FPHL and body mass index >26 kg/m (OR = 1.1), fasting glucose> 110 mg% (OR = 1.1), puberty before 16 years of age (OR = 1.2), lower (≤3 ) number of births (OR = 1.2), use of oral contraceptives for more than one year (OR = 1.2) and sun exposure for more than 16 hours per week (OR: 1.2). However, women who had breastfed (OR = 0.9), avoided sun exposure (OR = 0.8) or had menstrual cycle shorter than 35 days (OR = 0.9) were less likely to develop the disease. These data suggest that higher exposure to estrogen may positively correlate with FPHL, which suggests a potential epigenetic control of FPHL.²³

To date, there are no population studies on the prevalence of FPHL in African and Brazilian women.

Table 1 summarizes the weighted results of different studies on the prevalence of FPHL in Caucasoid and Asian women, according to age. These studies show a higher frequency in Caucasoid women at all ages.^18-23

TABLE 1.

Prevalence of Female Pattern Hair Loss in each age group, according to epidemiological studies indifferent population groups.

Study	Country	n			Age groups*
			20-29#	30-39#	40-49#	50-59#	60-69#	>69#
Norwood, 2001	USA	1008	3	17	16	23	25	29
Birch, 2001	England	377	3	10	5	14	33	38
Gan, 2005	Australia	717	12	17	25	28	41	56
Wang, 2010	China	8446	1	2	5	8	10	12
Pai, 2001	South Korea	4601	-	2	4	7	12	25
Su, 2013	Taiwan	26226	-	6	10	12	13	15

^*age in years;

^#approximate percentage of patients with FPHL in each age group

Although most patients with FPHL do not display other signs of hyperandrogenism, FPHL is associated with hyperandrogenic conditions, the most common being the polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS).²⁴ In a study conducted in England in 2003, 89 women with FPHL were evaluated and compared to a control group. Among those patients with FPHL, 67% were diagnosed with PCOS, compared to 27% in the control group

Although FPHL more frequently manifests in adulthood, it may also occur in childhood and adolescence. In 2004, Tosti and colleagues reported 20 cases of children aged between 6-10 years (12 of whom were girls) with diffuse-pattern androgenetic alopecia. None of them had laboratory abnormalities, however, they all had strong family history.²⁶ A case series involving 43 children (8 of whom were girls) aged between 12 and 18 years also described a high level of family involvement. Only one subject experienced hormonal changes.²⁷

There is evidence that FPHL has a phenotype independently associated with insulin resistance and atherosclerosis. The causal model for this finding has not yet been established, but it may be related to a hyperandrogenic state induced by insulin resistance, which also favors atherosclerosis.^28-30

A case-control study conducted in Spain in 2011 evaluated 240 subjects (60 men and 60 women with hair loss and 120 controls without alopecia). The authors found an association between early onset of baldness (<35 years of age), hyperglycemia, diabetes and low levels of SHBG. SHBG also showed to be an independent predictor of hyperglycemia in patients with alopecia, even after adjustment for waist circumference, gender and testosterone level (OR = 3.35). There was no association between low levels of SHBG and hyperglycemia in the controls.³¹

In order to investigate the relationship between baldness and metabolic syndrome, an epidemiological study was conducted in Korea in 2012. 1701 women and 1707 men were evaluated. Women with metabolic syndrome had higher prevalence of FPHL when compared with women without FPHL (OR = 1.7). This relationship, however, was not observed in the male population, which suggests that follicle miniaturization in FPHL and MPA arises from different stimuli.³² On the other hand, in patients without metabolic syndrome, no relationship was found between FPHL and insulin resistance.³³

An epidemiological study conducted in 2013 in Taiwan with 7,252 subjects of both sexes showed that FPHL and MPA are independent risk factors for cardiovascular disease mortality (HR = 2.3) and diabetes mellitus (HR = 3.0 ).³⁴

Similarly, a study conducted in 2005 in Iran with 51 women with coronary artery disease (CAD) and 55 controls who underwent coronary angiography found an association between FPHL and CAD (RR = 1.26).³⁵

Another case-control study conducted in Spain with 37 patients with FPHL and 37 controls showed a higher prevalence of carotid atheromatous disease (OR = 4.2) and metabolic syndrome (OR = 10.7) in cases than in controls.³⁶

PATHOPHYSIOLOGY

The pathophysiology of FPHL is not yet completely understood. There is evidence that genetic, hormonal and possibly environmental factors are involved.³⁷

The biological cycle of the hair follicles is not synchronized among the adjacent units, assuming a mosaic pattern in the scalp. It is didactically divided into three phases: anagen (growth phase), catagen (regression) and telogen (resting phase). At the end of the telogen phase, the original hair falls out (exogenous phase) and is replaced by a new hair at early growth stage. Normally, the anagen phase lasts between 2 and 8 years; the catagen phase last between 2 and 3 weeks, and the telogen phases lasts about 3 months.³⁸

Thus, in a normal adult scalp, there are around 80-90% of hair in the anagen phase, 10-20% in the telogen phase and 1-2% in the catagen phase. This can be evidenced by trichogram or anatomopathological examination.¹⁷

In FPHL there is a reduction in the duration of the anagen phase and a miniaturization of the dermal papilla (thinning of the hair). Thick pigmented hairs are gradually replaced by miniaturized hairs (Figure 2). Moreover, there is a delay between the end of the telogen phase and the beginning of the new anagen phase.³⁹ This resting phase, during which the hair follicle remains empty, is known as the kenogen phase.⁴⁰There is a gradual decrease in capillary density in the affected areas. Although FPHL and MPA have clinical presentations with different patterns, these changes also occur in MPA.

FIGURE 2.

Representative schemes of the hair cycle. A - Normal cycle of the follicle. B - Alterations occurring in baldness: shortening of the anagen phase, increase in the latency period (kenogen phase) and hair follicle minituarization. These alterations may occur together or individually both in FPHL and MPA.

The hair follicle is a complex structure in constant activity. An imbalance between various growth factors and cytokines which mantain the anagen phase and promote apoptosis can determine the beginning of the catagen phase (Chart 1).^41-48

CHART 1.

Main factors associated with the transition from the anagen hair phase to the catagen hair phase.

Anagen-promoting factors	Factors promoting follicle apoptosis
		bFGF	FGF5
FGF7	IL-1α
HGF	PGD2
IGF-1	TGF-β1
PGE2	TNF-α
VEGF
Wnt

bFGF, basic fi broblast growth factor; FGF5, fi broblast growth factor 5; FGF7, fi broblast growth factor 7; HGF, hepatocyte growth factor; IGF-1, insulin-like growth factor-1; IL-1 α, interleukin-1 alpha; PGD2, prostaglandin D2; PGE2, prostaglandin E2; TGF-β1, transforming growth factor beta1; TNF-α, tumor necrosis factor α; VEGF, growth factor of the vascular endothelium; Wnt, Wnt signaling pathway.

The diffuse apoptosis of the follicular keratinocytes leads to the follicular regression observed in the catagen phase. The premature termination of the anagen phase is a landmark event in the development of FPHL.³⁹

Apoptosis can be triggered in two ways: by the extrinsic pathway, through specific binders to a membrane receptors group from the superfamily of necrosis factor receptors; or by the intrinsic pathway, which may result from a loss in adhesion between keratinocytes, a decrease in growth factors, among other flags.⁴⁹

In the hair follicle, the apoptosis starts in the melanogenic area (late anagen), propagates to the array (premature catagen) and then to the internal and external root sheath.^50,51

Apoptosis in the various sites of the hair follicle present different forms of regulation. The direct role of cytokines and growth factors in the control of the apoptosis of follicular keratinocytes in this process has not yet been fully established.^50,51

The diameter of the follicles is directly determined by the size of the dermal papilla.⁵² Therefore, the miniaturization process is due to the decrease in the volume of the papillae. As the hair keeps the same thickness from the tip to the proximal portion, it is concluded that no thinning occurs during the anagen phase. Thus, it is understood that miniaturization occurs sometime between the catagen phase and the formation of the new hair.^53,54 The factors that directly lead to a decrease in volume of the papillae are not known and should become primary targets in the developing of FPHL treatments and prevention strategies.

The miniaturized hair is very similar to vellus hair, but is not a true vellus hair. Although the hair is thin, it has a developed piloerector muscle, unlike the vellus hair, which has no or absent muscle.

A possible mechanism of follicle miniaturization is the decrease in the number of papilla cells due to apoptosis.⁵⁵ Although apoptosis can be induced in the papilla fibroblasts in experimental situations, the papilla is the only component of the follicle which permanently expresses high levels of the antiapoptotic protein bcl-2, which in theory confers resistance against proapoptotic stimuli.^50,51,55,56 The failure of antiapoptotic mechanisms should be investigated as a key element in the pathophysiology of FPHL.

Despite the importance of hormonal factors in the development of baldness, the action mechanisms through which they lead to shortening of the anagen phase and the miniaturization of the follicles have not yet been elucidated.

HORMONAL FACTORS

The dependence on androgens for the development of baldness in men was observed by Hippocrates (400 BC) and established by Hamilton in 1942. It was observed that eunuchs and men castrated before puberty did not develop baldness. However, the administration of testosterone (T) induced alopecia in individuals with a family history of baldness.⁸ These observations together indicate that T, or one of its metabolites, were involved in the development of MPA in individuals with genetic predisposition.

Androgens spread through the cytoplasmic membrane and connect themselves to specific intracellular receptors. This complex hormone-receptor promotes the transcription of genes that are primarily responsible for its tissue actions.⁵⁷

The observation that men with a genetic deficiency of type-2 5α-reductase (5αR) did not develop baldness suggested that dihydrotestosterone (DHT) was the main androgen involved in the development of MPA.⁵⁸

5αR is an enzyme that converts T in DHT metabolite. There are two types of 5αR: type 1 and type 2. Type-1 5αR is present in sebaceous glands, and type-2 5αR is present in the genitourinary tract and in the hair follicles.⁵⁹

The miniaturization of the hair follicle caused by androgens occurs primarily due to the action of DHT, which has five times greater affinity for the androgen receptor (AR) than testosterone.⁵⁹ The androgen linked to the AR leads to the transcription of the genes responsible for its biological action on the target cells (Figure 3).

FIGURE 3.

Representative scheme of the cellular action of androgens. Testosterone (T) enters the cell and is converted by the 5α-reductase enzyme into dihydrotestosterone (DHT). Both T and DHT link themselves to the androgen receptor to promote alterations in cell DNA transcription

Adapted from Randall, 200857⁵⁷

In addition, DHT may interfere with the follicular cycle by interacting with the Wnt signaling pathway. The Wnt pathway induces dermal papilla cells to maintain the anagen phase.⁴⁵ The addition of DHT mediated by Wnt3a suppressed the growth of keratinocytes in culture with cells derived from the dermal papilla of the patient with baldness.⁶⁰ The interplay of these pathways might be an important target for the treatment of baldness. A recent phase I clinical trial showed improvements in hair density and thickness in men with MPA through the infiltration of a complex containing Wnt activity.⁶¹

Despite the fact that the evidence indicating that androgens participate in baldness has emerged from studies in men, androgens were also assumed to play such role in female baldness, due to the idea that, in spite of the clinical differences, male and female baldness are the same entity.

Blocking of type-2 5αR proved effective in the treatment of MPA, confirming the importance of DHT in the pathophysiology of the disease. However, finasteride and dutasteride (even at higher doses) showed less consistent results in the treatment of FPHL.^62-68

Aromatase is an enzyme that converts androstenedione to estrone and testosterone to estradiol, exerting an antiandrogenic action. In 1997, in a study by Sawaya involving 12 men and 12 women with baldness, the aromatase levels of the follicles of the frontal region of women with FPHL were half as high as those of the occipital region. When compared with the follicles of the frontal region of men showed, these levels were six times greater.⁶⁹ These data suggest that aromatase may exert a protective action against baldness by converting androgens to estrogens.

MICROINFLAMATION

In baldness, the miniaturization process may be accompanied by a mild to moderate lymphohistiocytic inflammatory infiltrate in the peri-infundibular region. To term microinflamation has been used in order to differentiate it from the inflammation that occurs in scarring alopecia.^70,71

The frequency of this process is variable. In 1993, Whiting evaluated the presence of inflammatory infiltrate in 106 men with MPA and 22 controls (13 men and 9 women). Mild inflammatory infiltrate was found in 30% of cases and controls. However, moderate inflammatory infiltrate was found in 36% of cases compared to only 9.1% of controls.⁷²

The fact that the inflammatory process occurs in the upper part of the follicle suggests that the causal factor may affect this region. External factors such as ultraviolet radiation, environmental pollutants, inhabitants of the skin microbiota and follicle (such as Propionibacterium sp.; Staphylococcus sp.; Malassezia sp.), among others, could be involved in the induction of the microinflamation process.⁷⁰

The real meaning of this inflammatory process for development of FPHL, as well as its possible relation to the miniaturization process and the hormonal elements involved in FPHL have not yet been established.

GENETICS

Patients with FPHL often report family members affected by the disease (40-54%), especially in cases with early clinical presentation (<40 years).²¹ A comparative study which assessed baldness in male twins found a twice higher agreement level in monozygotic twins than in dizygotic twins.⁷³

Family segregation is not yet fully understood, however, the high prevalence of FPHL and the fact that FPHL manifests with varying degrees of intensity and has its onset at different ages, suggest a polygenic pattern with incomplete penetrance.^74,75 In addition, family influence in the development of baldness may vary between men and women and according to the form of presentation (classical or diffuse).⁷⁶

Despite the importance of DHT in the development of MPA, no correlation was found between the SRD5A1 and SRD5A2 genes (responsible for the production of type 1 and type 2 5α-reductase enzymes) and the development of baldness.⁷⁷

The strongest evidence of genetic involvement in the development of baldness comes from studies involving the AR gene in men. A single nucleotide polymorphism in the first exon, known as STUL was associated with baldness. Although this change is found in 98% of men with premature baldness and in 92% of men with late baldness, it was also found in 77% of men without baldness.^78-80

These elements suggest that other changes are necessary for development of MPA, which supports the hypothesis of a polygenic origin and epigenetic control of this entity, such as hormonal changes, medications, and environmental stimuli.

The number of CAG repeats in the first exon of the AR gene varies among individuals. An inverse relationship between the number of CAG repeats in its amino-terminal portion and the activation of AR was observed. This implies that individuals with shorter repetitions are at increased risk of baldness.⁷⁵

However, as the AR gene is located on chromosome X, this does not justify the agreement of phenotypes of fathers and sons. Thus, there is either a direct maternal transmission or a polygenic inheritance (autosomal). Another hypothesis is that, in addition to this gene, other environmental elements are involved in the development of baldness.

There is less evidence of the participation of the AR gene in the pathophysiology of FPHL than in that of MPA. No relationship has been found between the presence of the StuI restriction fragment and FPHL.⁸¹ However, just as in men, the number of CAG repeats in the first exon of the AR gene was inversely correlated with FPHL.^82,83 This observation allowed the development of genetic testing, in which the detection of a small number of CAG repeats is associated with an increased risk of development of FPHL, whereas a larger number of repeats is associated with a lower risk (http://www.hairdx.com).

In women with FPHL (especially in younger women), nonfunctioning single nucleotide polymorphism (rs4646) was identified in the gene that encodes aromatase (CYP19A1).⁸⁴

A meta-analysis of seven genome-wide association studies identified six susceptibility loci associated with MPA: 1p36.22, 2q37.3, 7p21.1, 7q11.22, 17q21.31 and 18q21.1.⁸⁵ However, a study conducted by Redler in 2013, involving 405 women with baldness and 469 controls found no association between these loci and FPHL.⁸⁶

In a subsequent study, four new loci associated with MPA (2q35, 3q25.1, 5q33.3 and 12p12.1) were not associated with FPHL.^87,88 These data together suggest that MPA and FPHL have different etiopathogenic factors.

Besides genetics, external factors may also be important for the development of FPHL. A US study conducted in 2012 with 98 female identical twins, raised several environmental factors possibly related to FPHL. These included: testosterone levels, psychological stress, hypertension, diabetes mellitus, smoking, multiple marriages, lack of photoprotection, higher income and little physical activity.⁸⁹ However, the actual role of these factors in the causal model of FPHL still need be determined.

CLINICAL PRESENTATION AND CLASSIFICATION

Reduction in hair thickness and density leads to a reduction in the overall hair volume (average hair thickness x number of hairs).^19,78

This phenomenon can be noticed by the patient in various ways. By dividing the hair in the middle, the dividing line becomes more evident (line sign); and when the hair is tied together (ponytail), the ponytail holder becomes loose or it is necessary to pull the hair more often through the used rubber band.¹⁷As the clinical picture evolves, the scalp becomes more visible and may be fully visible in more advanced cases.

Clinically, FPHL can manifest in three ways:⁹⁰

1.Diffuse thinning of the upper biparietal and vertex region preserving the anterior hair implantation line. This pattern can be classified using two scales. That of Ludwig,⁷ which divides it into three degrees, from a mild light thinning in the first degree to the complete absence of hairs in the affected area in the third degree (Figure 4). Although widely used, this scale has limitations because does not make it possible to classify intermediate stages more precisely. Moreover, it is not a good tool for therapeutic evaluation, as treatment - even follicular transplant - can hardly go back a full stage in the classification. Sinclair's classification is similar, but the disease is subdivided into four levels of intensity based on the normal scalp, which makes it more adjustable to the reality of each patient (Figure 5).⁹¹

FIGURE 4.

Ludwig´s classification. First proposed classification of MPA. MPA was divided into three intensity degrees.

Adapted from Ludwig, 1977 ⁷

FIGURE 5.

Sinclair’s classification. MPA is divided into four levels of intensity based on the normal scalp to the left.

Adapted from Sinclair et al, 2005 ⁹¹

1. Thinning of the upper bitemporal region and vertex with frontal accentuation (Christmas tree pattern). In this pattern which was described by Olsen in 1999,^92,93 in addition to the diffuse thinning process, there is an accentuation in the central line, opening up into a triangle with its base at the anterior hair implantation line (Figure 6).

FIGURE 6.

Olsen´s classification. Other than diffuse thinning, there is also a frontal accentuation opening towards the anterior hair implantation line, creating a “Christmas tree” pattern.

Adapted from Olsen 2002 ¹⁰ and Olsen 2003 ⁹³

1. Thinning with bitemporal recess (Figure 7). This is said to be the classical clinical presentation. It was proposed by Hamilton in 1951 and modified by Norwood in 1975.^9,94 This system is mainly used for the classification of male baldness, however, this pattern can also rarely occur in women.

FIGURE 7.

Hamilton-Nordwood´s classification. Created for the classification of MPA. This pattern rarely affects women

Adapted from Norwood, 1975⁹

In 2011, a new classification known as BASP (basic and speficic) was developed by Lee. Lee's aim was to develop a unified scale, which was easy to remember and apply and could be used in various types of baldness presentation in both men and women.^95-97

The basic forms are represented by the shape of the anterior hair implantation line (L, M, C and U). Specific features relate to the hair density in different areas (frontal and vertex). The final classification depends on the combination of basic and specific forms (Figure 8).⁹⁷

FIGURE 8.

The basic type (BA) is defined by the shape of the anterior hair implantation line. There are 4 types and they are designated by letters. Type L, there is no hair loss in the frontal hair implantation line, linear pattern Type M, the bilateral frontotemporal recess is more prominent than the central recess. It has the shape of the letter M. Type C, the central recess is more prominent than the frontotemporal recess. It has the shape od the letter C. Types M and C are subdivided into 4 groups, according to the intensity. Type U, the frontal line is behind the vertex. It has the shape of a horseshoe or of the letter U. Type U is subdivided into 3 groups, according to the position of the hair implantation line between the vertex and the occipital protuberance. The specific type (SP) represents the capillary density in certain areas. Type F (frontal), decreased hair density across the top area of the scalp, except the anterior line. Type V is the rarefaction in the vertex region. Specific types are subdivided into 3 groups, according to the intensity. When the patient presents both types (F and V), both types should be described. The fi nal type is decided by the combination of the assigned basic and specific types.

Adapted from Lee et al, 2011⁹⁵

On physical examination, the pull test (Sabouraud's sign) may reveal an increase in the release of telogen hairs. The amount of hairs that come off depends on the amount of hairs pulled. Considering that 10 to 20% of hairs are in the telogen phase and many of them are still firmly adhered to the epithelial bag, it is expected that up to 10% of the hairs pulled may come off.¹⁷

When the test is positive in FPHL, it is restricted to the areas affected by the disease. A diffusely positive test indicates telogen effluvium or diffuse alopecia areata.⁹⁶ The presence of telogen hairs smaller than three centimeters represents the telogen phase of the miniaturized follicles and are strongly suggestive of the diagnosis of FPHL.¹⁵ The test shows great inter-examiner variability and lack of standardization. A recent hair wash with detachment of telogen hairs can influence the test results.

Usually, FPHL is not accompanied by systemic symptoms or clinical findings extending beyond the scalp.

Clinically, the initial forms of FPHL or diffuse thinning can make diagnosis difficult due to other forms of non-scarring diffuse alopecia such as chronic telogen effluvium, senile alopecia, diffuse alopecia areata, alopecia areata incognita, loose anagen hair syndrome and syphilitic alopecia.^98-109

The overlap between diagnoses occurs with some frequency, eventually revealing clinical pictures of initial FPHL. The use of additional semiotic techniques such as trichogram, dermoscopy, TrichoScan^® and histopathological examination helps the diagnosis of FPHL in such cases.

TRICHOGRAM

Trichogram is a technique in which a sample of hairs - generally containing between 50 and 100 hairs - removed from the scalp is analyzed with a light microscope.

This test allows to assess the number of hairs in each phase of the cycle (anagen, catagen or telogen) and is especially indicated in case of suspicion of anagen effluvium or loose anagen syndrome. It should only be performed by trained dermatologists who frequently perform this test.^16,90

DERMOSCOPY

Dermoscopy is noninvasive test. It is easy to perform and can contribute to the diagnosis of FPHL, especially in the early stages of the disease.^110-112

The main dermoscopic finding is the diversity of the thickness of the hairs with an increased number of miniaturized hairs, especially in the frontoparietal region (Figure 9).¹¹⁰ In 2012, in a study involving 34 patients with FPHL, these changes were found in all subjects.¹¹³ The single observation of more than 10% of fine hairs is strongly suggestive of the diagnosis.¹¹⁴

FIGURE 9.

Dermoscopy of the scalp. A) FPHL. There is great variability in the thickness of the hair shaft, hairs emerging individually from the follicular ostium, reduced follicle density (late fi nding) and incipient pigment network between follicles. B) Normal. Uniformity in the thickness of the hairs and several hairs emerging from the same ostium

A decrease in the number of hairs per follicular unit is another important element. Typically, most hairs emerge from the follicular ostium in groups of 2 to 4. In PFA, the hairs emerge alone or in groups of 2 (Figure 9).

The peripilar sign, a light brown area, slightly atrophic around the follicle, usually occurs in the early stages of FPHL. This sign shows correlation with the inflammatory infiltrate seen in the anatomopathological examination.¹¹⁵

Yellow dots may be seen in more advanced cases, probably as a result of sebum and keratin buildup in dilated follicles.¹¹⁴ With increasing thinning of the hairs, there is greater penetration of ultraviolet radiation into the scalp and alterations typical of photoaging, such as the honeycomb pigmented network, may occur.

These signs, when evaluated together, allow the early diagnosis of FPHL, before the occurrence of significant reduction in hair volume. In 2009, Rakowska standardized some criteria for the diagnosis of FPHL based on dermoscopic findings (Chart 2).¹¹⁴

CHART 2.

Dermoscopic criteria for the diagnosis of FPHL. Two major criteria or one major criterium and two minor criterium indicate the diagnosis with 98% specificity

Major criteria

1 - More than 4 yellow in 4 areas of the frontal region (70x magnification) 2 - Decreased average thickness of hairs in the frontal region when compared with the occipital region (evaluation of at least 50 hairs from each area) 3 - More than 10% of fine hairs (<0,03 mm) in the frontal region

Minor criteria

1 - Ratio between the number of isolated hairs per follicular unit of the frontal area and the number of isolated hairs per follicular unit of the occipital area is > 2: 1 2 - Ratio between the number of fine hairs in the frontal area and the number of fine hairs in the occipital area is > 1,5:1 3 - Ratio between the number of hyperpigmented follicles in the frontal area and the number of hyperpigmented follicles in the occipital area is > 3:1

TRICHOSCAN^®

TrichosScan^® is a system that combines epiluminescence microscopy and automated digital image analysis. It allows the estimation of the number and density of hairs, of the percentage of terminal and vellus hairs, and by mathematical approximation, of the percentage of hairs in the anagen and telogen phases.^116,117

To perform the test, a small area of the scalp (aproximately 1 cm²) is shaved and evaluated after 48 to 72 hours The software performs an automatic analysis of the image captured by the camera. The total number of hairs in the area, the hair density per cm², and the percentage of terminal hairs (thickness greater than 40 µm) and vellus hairs (thickness smaller than 40 µm) is determined.

Anagen hairs, unlike telogen hairs, undergo a continuous growth process. As the images are analyzed 72 hours after shaving, the length of the hair allows to differentiate between those hairs that grew and those that did not. Those hairs that grew are classified as anagen and those who did not are classified as telogen.

TrichosScan^® can be used as a diagnostic aid tool and for monitoring patients in treatment. To ensure reproducibility in subsequent assessments, it is advisable to tattoo the area to be assessed.

LABORATORY ALTERATIONS

FPHL is not associated with characteristic laboratory alterations. The investigation of the causes of telogen effluvium can benefit the therapeutic response in patients with concomitant conditions.

An association between possible changes in ferritin levels and FPHL is controversial. Some studies have demonstrated lower ferritin levels in patients with FPHL when compared to controls, and improved response to antiandrogen therapy in patients with ferritin levels greater than 40 µg/l.^118,119

However, a review conducted by Trost and colleagues in 2006 concluded that there is no evidence for routine determination of ferritin levels in hair loss research, as well as there is no evidence for iron supplementation in patients without anemia. The decision to perform or not perform a laboratory research and supplementation should be taken individually.¹²⁰

Trost also states that, despite the lack of evidence, he does perform routine laboratory tests and treats iron deficient patients irrespective of whether or not they have anemia. He justifies his conduct by saying that he believes that patients show a better therapeutic response when their serum ferritin levels are above 20 µg/ml.¹²⁰

Most women with PFA do not have hyperandrogenism. The presence of other signs and symptoms that are indicative of hyperandrogenism, such as changes in the menstrual cycle, infertility, clitoral hypertrophy, changes in libido, hirsutism, acne, oily skin and changes in voice timbre should be clinically evaluated and constitute a warning sign.¹²¹

The European Consensus held in 2011 recommends free androgen index (FAI) and prolactin dosage as screening tests. The FAI is the relationship between total testosterone and sex hormone-binding glubulin (SHBG) [Total Testosterone (nmol/L)/SHBG (nmol/L) x 100]. Depending on the results and on the clinical context, a complementary endocrinologic evaluation can be performed. FAI of 5 or greater is indicative of polycystic ovary syndrome. The use of hormonal contraceptives causes alterations in SHBG levels. Therefore, laboratory tests should only be carried out after a hormonal contraceptive pause of at least 2 months.⁹⁰

Likewise, TSH levels should be controlled, as thyroid dysfunctions may contribute to the effluvium associated with FPHL.¹²²

The importance of vitamin D, in addition to calcium metabolism, has been widely discussed in recent years. A recent study involving 80 female patients with telogen effluvium or FPHL and 40 controls showed lower levels of vitamin D in cases than in controls.¹²³ However, its role in the hair cycle and in the development of alopecia has yet to be established.^124,125

ANATOMOPATHOLOGIC CHANGES

Most of the times, the diagnosis of FPHL can only be established based on clinical elements. Very early cases, atypical presentations and possible coexistence with other types of alopecia may require the performance of a histopathological examination for its definition.

The traditional analysis of longitudinal sections allows visualization of the entire follicle, which is essential for the assessment of alopecias associated with lichenoid infiltrate, interface and subcutaneous alterations.⁷¹ However, longitudinal sections allow the assessment of only a small number of sample follicles, making it impossible to perform a quantitative analysis of the follicles, which is necessary for the diagnosis of FPHL.

The analysis of the follicles using transverse sections standardized by Whiting in 1993, allows the benchmarking among all the follicles of the sample and is a standard method for the histological evaluation of patients with suspicion of FPHL.⁷²

Therefore, ideally a two-point biopsy (4mm punch) should be performed to allow both the transverse and the horizontal sections.⁷¹

The main alteration found in the horizontal section is the increase in the proportion of miniaturized hairs when compared to terminal hairs (Figure 10).

FIGURE 10.

Histopathological examination of FPHL. a) Transverse section evidencing wide variability in diameter of the follicles. b) terminal follicle in detail. c) miniaturized follicle, perifollicular fibrosis and sparse mononuclear inflammatory infiltrate in detail. (HE 40x)

Conceptually, terminal hairs have a diameter greater than 0.03 mm and are thicker than their inner root sheath. Vellus hairs and miniaturized hairs have a diameter smaller than 0.03 mm and are thinner than the inner root sheath. The differentiation between primary vellus hair and miniaturized hairs can be made by observing the outer root sheath (which is more structured) and the piloerector muscle (which is more developed) of miniaturized hairs.

There is a reduction in the anagen/telogen ratio and, in advanced cases, a reduction in the follicular density. In addition, a discreet perifollicular lymphohistiocytic inflammatory infiltrate and fibrosis, associated with a worse prognosis, may occur.^72,126

In vertical sections, a band which is characteristic of the residual connective tissue can be seen in the depth of the dermis, under the miniaturized follicles.¹⁰⁶

QUALITY OF LIFE

Although the hairs do not exhibit a vital biological function, they are of marked importance for appearance, self-esteem and social identity function.¹³

The severity of alopecia, established by the dermatologist through classification systems, does not predict the perception of the patient about the severity of his/her case or its impact on his/her quality of life.¹² Therefore, dermatologists should be aware of the emotional components and use specific tools to assess the impact of FPHL patients' quality of life.

For women, having healthy hair involves feelings of self-esteem, mutability and social interaction. A study conducted in Brazil in 2012, the fear of losing all the hairs was as great as the fear of developing a myocardial infarction.¹²⁷

Despite the existence of several generic questionnaires to assess quality of life, they do not always properly cover all areas of specific diseases. In 2000, Dolte and colleagues developed and validated a specific questionnaire to assess quality of life in patients with FPHL: the "Women's Androgenetic Alopecia Quality of Life Questionnaire" (WAAQOL).¹²⁸

Although the questionnaire has demonstrated excellent psychometric properties, the WAA-QOL is still little used in clinical research, and has not yet been translated and culturally adapted into Brazilian Portuguese. However, it is an important tool for assessing both the individual impact of FPHL in patients' quality of life and treatment response in clinical trials.

FINAL CONSIDERATIONS

Despite the high prevalence of FPHL, its management still imposes several difficulties to dermatologists' clinical practice.

Its nomenclature and diagnostic definition still generate conflicts between authors of different publications. Genetic elements are not completely known. The actual participation of hormones is still unclear.⁵

Although the microscopic alterations between FPHL and MPA are identical, when considering the diversity of clinical presentations and responses to treatment, we cannot be sure that they are the same entity with different presentations between the sexes.⁵

Although treatment is not considered part of the scope of this text, it should be noted that the therapeutic response of FPHL is variable and less expressive than that of MPA. Even with use of antiandrogens, combined oral contraceptives, topical minoxidil and low power laser, there is no full recovery, and sometimes recovery is not even clinically noticeable in patients.^129,130 Follicular transplantation has certain limitations with regard to the availability of donor areas in diffuse cases and the augmentation of capillary volume in the transplanted area. Moreover, prolonged medical treatment is still necessary.^131-133

The identification of vulnerable patients associated with the diagnosis of early forms of FPHL, as well as the early introduction of therapy may promote better clinical results than those achieved in more advanced cases or even stop the progression of the disease.

It should be noted that there is still low accuracy in FPHL detection though clinical photographs. Patients' reports, dermoscopy and TrichoScan^® should be used for the objective and longitudinal evaluation of alopecia in therapeutic clinical trials associated with FPHL. Improvement in semiotic techniques will allow a more accurate diagnosis and better detection of outcomes in clinical trials.¹³⁴

It is essential to advance in the knowledge of the pathophysiology of FPHL in order to develop new and more effective therapies for the prevention and reversing of the disease process. This includes detailed investigation of other potential elements (other than genetic and hormonal elements) involved in its pathogenesis.³⁷

More than describing in detail the minutiae of the hair cycle, the elucidation of the epidemiology, genetics and pathophysiology of FPHL are a hope for improving the quality of life of patients affected by this disease.