DUPA or telogen effluvium, androgenetic alopecia or normal? (Photos)

Question

I have MPB (hairline) and took Finasteride for 2 years. A Trichoscope exam suggested Telogen Effluvium, which confuses me as I didn't experience significant shedding. 3 months later, I had a hair transplant with a different doctor who noticed some miniaturization in my donor area. I'm 37 years old and wondering if this is normal. Seeking expert insights on the Trichoscope results regarding miniaturization. Is my donor area safe? My hair has always been thin, wavy, and fine.

Ross Kopelman, DO · Answer

It sounds like you're dealing with a mix of conditions that can be confusing, especially when trying to understand what’s happening with your donor area. Given your history of male pattern baldness (MPB) and miniaturization in the donor area, it’s possible you may have diffuse unpatterned alopecia (DUPA), which can affect both the donor and recipient areas. However, telogen effluvium (TE) is also a possibility, particularly if you've experienced any physical or emotional stress in the months leading up to your Trichoscope exam. TE doesn’t always cause noticeable shedding but can still affect the overall density of your hair.
Miniaturization in the donor area can be a concern when considering future hair transplant success, as these areas are typically relied upon for healthy grafts. It’s important to monitor the progression closely. Finasteride is a great step in slowing down MPB, but if miniaturization persists in your donor area, a more in-depth evaluation might be needed to rule out DUPA, as this condition could limit the effectiveness of future transplants.

DUPA or telogen effluvium, androgenetic alopecia or normal? (Photos)

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DUPA or telogen effluvium, androgenetic alopecia or normal? (Photos)

Answers (1)

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Everything you need to know about Hair Transplant

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.