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Back to Dermatology Diseases
Baldness
Baldness (synonym: Alopecia) is the state of lacking hair where it
usually would grow, especially on the head.
The most common form of baldness seen is male pattern baldness, in
which the hair recedes from the lateral sides of the forehead, known
as "receding brow". Additionally, a bald patch can develop on top
(vertex). The trigger for this type of baldness, which is also known
as androgenetic alopecia, is currently believed to be an enzyme,
5-alpha reductase, that converts the hormone testosterone into
dihydrotestosterone (DHT), which inhibits hair growth. The age at
which the enzyme appears, if it does at all, is genetically
determined. Male pattern baldness is being classified on the
Hamilton-Norwood scale I-VIII.
Female pattern baldness, in which the midline parting of the hair
appears broadened, is less common. It is believed to result from a
decrease in estrogen, a hormone that normally counteracts the balding
effect of testosterone, which normally occurs in women's blood. Female
pattern baldness is being classified on the Ludwig scale I-III.
Hair loss is a frequent side-effect of chemotherapy, in all ages and
both sexes. This is due to the fact the chemotherapy affects all
rapidly replicating cells, including the ones in the hair follicle.
Some mycotic infections can cause massive hair loss.
Other forms of baldness:
Alopecia areata
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