Female pattern hair loss

Female pattern hair loss (FPHL) is a commonly encountered clinical presentation in primary care. Patterned hair loss in women is characterised by diffuse hair thinning and often becomes an ongoing cause of psychosocial distress.

The aim of this article is to present a practical approach for the clinical assessment of female hair loss and to review the up-to-date treatment modalities.

Alopecia can be the first symptom of systemic illness. It is therefore crucial for the primary care physician to be able to differentiate between FPHL and more concerning causes of hair loss. Treatment options often involve a combination of non-androgenic and androgenic therapy. The use of oral minoxidil in combination with oral spironolactone is a novel therapy with promising results. The role of the general practitioner is paramount in establishing the diagnosis, setting achievable therapeutic goals and navigating the psychosocial comorbidity associated with this chronic condition.