Male pattern alopecia, also known as alopecia premature, is a progressive process where scalp hair follicles gradually transform from terminal hair to vellus hair. It is an autosomal dominant genetic disorder, and its hereditary characteristics only manifest under the influence of androgens.

bubble_chart Clinical Manifestations

It is more common in men, typically occurring between the ages of 20 and 30. It usually starts at the temples on both sides of the forehead, progressing slowly as the hair gradually becomes finer, thinner, and falls out. The baldness gradually extends inward, and over several years to decades, the hair on the upper forehead and crown may completely disappear. The skin becomes smooth, with shrunken pores or a few remaining vellus hairs, while the occipital and temporal regions retain normal hair. In some cases, it begins at the crown of the head (alopecia areata). Male-pattern baldness can occasionally occur in adult women, manifesting as thinning hair on the crown, but the hairline at the forehead does not recede.

bubble_chart Treatment Measures

There is no effective treatment. A 2% minoxidil solution can be applied topically. For some individuals with male pattern baldness, hair transplantation may be considered for cosmetic purposes, where hair from the back of the scalp is moved to the top of the head. Alternatively, a wig can be used.