Androgenic Alopecia Panel
A comprehensive hormone test panel designed to evaluate androgen-related hair loss in both men and women.
Full Definition
An androgenic alopecia panel is a specialized collection of hormone tests used to investigate the underlying endocrine causes of pattern hair loss. The panel typically includes total and free testosterone, DHT, SHBG, DHEA-S, and sometimes additional markers like androstenedione and 17-hydroxyprogesterone. In women, the panel may be expanded to include markers for PCOS and thyroid function. The testing aims to identify elevated androgen levels or altered androgen metabolism that contribute to hair follicle miniaturization. Proper interpretation requires consideration of patient age, sex, medication use, and clinical presentation. The panel is particularly valuable in women with unexplained hair loss or when androgenic alopecia appears before typical age ranges.
Usage
Usage note: Specify gender when ordering, as panel composition may vary between male and female patients.
In Context
- "The dermatologist ordered an androgenic alopecia panel to rule out hormonal causes of the patient's hair loss." — Dermatology referral note
- "Results from the androgenic alopecia panel showed elevated free testosterone consistent with the clinical presentation." — Laboratory interpretation report