Dermatoscopic Findings in Androgenetic Alopecia

Abstract: Background: Androgenetic alopecia (AGA) is the term used to describe the typical, gradual patterned thinning of terminal hair on the scalp in a genetically predisposed individual. The diagnosis of this condition is mainly clinical. Previously, the only definitive way to diagnose and assess the extent of the condition was through a scalp biopsy. However, a new non-invasive method known as trichoscopy has emerged, offering an alternative approach. Trichoscopy involves using dermoscopy to capture images of the scalp and hair. This technique allows for the visualization of various structures such as openings of hair follicles, hair shafts, the perifollicular epidermis, and cutaneous microvasculature. Objectives: To study the trichoscopic features of androgenetic alopecia. Material and Methods: 80 patients with AGA (50 male and 30 female) were enrolled in this study. Data on age, gender, personal and family history, clinical type, onset and duration of disease were collected and evaluated. Trichoscopic examination was performed using video dermatoscope. Trichoscopy results were obtained in frontal, occipital and both temporal areas of the scalp. The data were statistically evaluated. Results: Hairshaft thickness heterogeneity (HSTH) was the most common trichoscopic feature seen in all the patients enrolled in the study. Brown peripilar sign was seen in 30 patients, white peripilar sign in 24 patients, pin point white dots in 20 patients, yellow dots in 2 patients, focal atrichia in 12 patients, scalp honeycomb pigmentation in 15 patients. Conclusion and recommendations: Trichoscopy is a simple, non-invasive tool that aids in diagnosis of AGA, allowing various sections of hair to be examined simultaneously. It provides easy documentation which also helps in evaluating a therapeutic response by comparing pre and post treatment images