Androgenetic alopecia: update on epidemiology, pathophysiology, and treatment

Androgenetic alopecia (AGA) and female pattern hair loss are highly prevalent in our society. In recent years, many strides have been made in understanding the epidemiology and the pathophysiology of this disease; yet, there are few truly effective treatments. In this paper, we review some of the recent research on the epidemiology, pathophysiology, and treatment of AGA. Further studies on genetics, mechanisms of disease, and novel therapies will likely lead to more efficacious treatment and improved outcomes in patients who have AGA and female pattern hair loss.