Alopecia and hirsuties. Current concepts in pathogenesis and management.

Hirsuties and androgenic alopecia are the patterns of hair growth in women which develop in a similar manner to that normally seen in men. This process is mediated by androgens. It may be due to increased hormone production or increased target organ sensitivity. The majority of patients with hirsuties may be adequately managed with a careful explanation of their condition and advice about depilatory techniques. Some will benefit from a course of systemic antiandrogen therapy, but hair growth will resume on cessation of therapy. There have been few objective studies to evaluate the benefits of antiandrogen therapy in female baldness and none with minoxidil.