Androgenetic alopecia (AGA), also known as male pattern hair loss (MPHL) or female pattern hair loss (FPHL), is the most common form of alopecia worldwide, and arises from an excessive response to androgens. AGA presents itself in a characteristic distribution unique to both sexes. Despite its prevalence, AGA can be quite challenging to treat. The condition is chronic in nature and stems from an interplay of genetic and environmental factors. There are only two US Food and Drug Administration (FDA)-approved drugs for the condition: topical minoxidil and oral finasteride. However, numerous non-FDA-approved treatments have been shown to be effective in treating AGA in various studies. Some of these treatments are relatively new and still to be explored, thus emphasizing the need for an updated review of the literature. In this comprehensive review, we discuss the evaluation of AGA and the mechanisms of action, costs, efficacies, and safety profiles of existing, alternative, and upcoming therapeutics for this widespread condition.

Alopecia areata (AA) is an autoimmune form of nonscarring hair loss. Currently, patients on Medicare and Medicaid cannot receive insurance coverage for wigs, or cranial hair prostheses (CP). On September 30, 2021, Representative James McGovern proposed an amendment to title XVIII of the Social Security Act to provide coverage for CP as durable medical equipment under the Medicare program, and for other purposes. 1 CP have been shown to improve the quality of life in patients with AA, but the most common limitation to obtaining a CP is its price. 2 No studies have examined insurance coverage patterns for patients with hair loss. Therefore, we conducted a survey examining the out-of-pocket costs and insurance coverage for CP in patients with AA.This study was exempt by the Lahey Hospital & Medical Center institutional review board. A web-based survey was distributed to National Alopecia Areata Foundation members in July 2022 via email.A total of 931 individuals accessed the survey and 626 individuals completed it (response rate: 67%). Participants were mostly Caucasian (73.1%), female (92.1%), average age of 50.1 ± 17.9, and 475 (75.7%) reported having ≥50% scalp hair loss (Table 1). Almost all participants considered getting a CP or other hair piece (93.1%). Most participants did acquire a CP

No abstract

No abstract