WebMD
Font Size
A
A
A

Inherited hair loss

Illustration copyright 2002 Nucleus Communications, Inc. All rights reserved. http://www.nucleusinc.com

Inherited hair loss (androgenetic alopecia, also known as male- or female-pattern hair loss) is the most common cause of hair loss. It is inherited from either or both the mother and the father.

  • In men, hair loss occurs on the front hairline and forehead and on the top of the head. Bald spots are noticeable.
  • In women, hair loss occurs as thinning of hair throughout the entire scalp, including the top and sides. Women do not generally have bald spots but rather have overall thinning hair.
Primary Medical Reviewer Patrice Burgess, MD
- Family Medicine
Primary Medical Reviewer Martin Gabica, MD
- Family Medicine
Specialist Medical Reviewer Randall D. Burr, MD
- Dermatology
Last Updated July 3, 2006

WebMD Medical Reference from Healthwise

Last Updated: July 03, 2006
This information is not intended to replace the advice of a doctor. Healthwise disclaims any liability for the decisions you make based on this information.
@ 1995-2007, Healthwise, Incorporated. Healthwise, Healthwise for every health decision, and the Healthwise logo are trademarks of Healthwise, Incorporated.