Genetic Hair Loss: Treatments and Testing (2)
For men, the HairDX test for Male Pattern Hair Loss reports on the presence or absence of a specific variation of the gene that governs androgenic alopecia. A positive test result indicates a high risk of genetic hair loss. Men who test positive have approximately a 70% chance of going bald, whereas a negative result indicates approximately a 70% chance of keeping their hair.
For women, the test offers a score, referred to as the CAG score, which indicates the likelihood of hair loss. The lower test scores are associated with a higher risk of significant hair loss, while the higher CAG scores indicate a lower risk of hair loss. Studies have shown that only 2.3% of women with a CAG score below 15 developed no hair loss.
Since currently the only FDA-approved treatments for hair loss are best at preserving the hair, being able to determine the likelihood of loss and how effective the treatment will be for an individual is invaluable. Together, these tests can help an individual make an informed decision and get better results from hair loss treatment.
A Bonus Benefit
The HairDX (RxR) test provides men with a CAG repeat score, similar to the one provided to women in the HairDX test. For men, this CAG repeat score is associated with an increased response to finasteride treatments. In addition, smaller CAG scores are associated with a risk of developing a condition called Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (or Enlarged Prostate).
Since an enlarged prostate can lead to other problems, including urinary difficulties and sexual dysfunction, early warning is important. The importance of this is heightened when combined with the knowledge that another problem associated with an enlarged prostate is the increased likelihood of undetected prostate tumors due to the enlargement.
The company responsible for creating these tests is PharmaGenoma, Inc., a dermatology company founded in 2007 by leading researches and specialists in genetics and dermatology. The company is dedicated to researching and developing new prescription therapies for skin conditions tailored to the genetic makeup of an individual.
The cost of the test varies depending on the area in which you live, but is less than $200 (U.S. Dollars). The test kit for male and female pattern baldness is listed with the U.S. Food and Drug Administration as a Class 1 medical device
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See also:
Hair loss treatment
Receding hair lines
A natural solution to hair loss