Causas e tratamentos aplicáveis à alopecia androgenética: uma revisão da literatura

Abstract

INTRODUCTION: Androgenetic alopecia (AGA) is the most common type of hair loss, especially among men, and is associated with a genetic predisposition. This form of alopecia is mediated by dihydrotestosterone (DHT), a more potent derivative of testosterone, which promotes the degeneration of hair follicles. This genetically determined condition, triggered by androgen response, has several pharmacological treatment options, including minoxidil, finasteride, dutasteride, cetirizine, and platelet rich plasma (PRP). OBJECTIVES: This study aims to investigate the underlying causes of AGA, focusing on the biochemical, hormonal, genetic, epigenetic, and inflammatory processes that contribute to the predisposition to AGA, affecting the hair growth cycle as well as hair loss. METHODOLOGY: This is a qualitative and exploratory study based on an integrative literature review. Source selection was carried out through searches in recognized scientific databases such as Google Scholar, SciELO Brasil, LILACS, and PubMed. The search used descriptors such as “androgenetic alopecia,” “causes of alopecia,” “alopecia treatments,” “minoxidil,” and “finasteride.” For the results framework, studies published in the last five years were explored, prioritizing articles in Portuguese, Spanish, and English. RESULTS: According to the eligibility criteria described in the methodology, 10 original publications on the subject were selected. The evidence from this study demonstrates that alopecia is a multifactorial and complex condition resulting from the interaction between hormonal, genetic, inflammatory, and epigenetic factors. CONCLUSION: Advances in understanding the biochemical mechanisms involved in alopecia will enable the development of more effective and personalized therapies, leading to significant improvements in patient care and the quality of life of affected individuals.