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Review
. 2016 Jan-Mar;9(1):3-12.
doi: 10.4103/0974-2077.178536.

Classifications of Patterned Hair Loss: A Review

Mrinal Gupta  1 , Venkataram Mysore  2
Affiliations
Review

Classifications of Patterned Hair Loss: A Review

Mrinal Gupta et al. J Cutan Aesthet Surg. 2016 Jan-Mar.

Abstract

Patterned hair loss is the most common cause of hair loss seen in both the sexes after puberty. Numerous classification systems have been proposed by various researchers for grading purposes. These systems vary from the simpler systems based on recession of the hairline to the more advanced multifactorial systems based on the morphological and dynamic parameters that affect the scalp and the hair itself. Most of these preexisting systems have certain limitations. Currently, the Hamilton-Norwood classification system for males and the Ludwig system for females are most commonly used to describe patterns of hair loss. In this article, we review the various classification systems for patterned hair loss in both the sexes. Relevant articles were identified through searches of MEDLINE and EMBASE. Search terms included but were not limited to androgenic alopecia classification, patterned hair loss classification, male pattern baldness classification, and female pattern hair loss classification. Further publications were identified from the reference lists of the reviewed articles.

Keywords: Androgenic alopecia; classification; patterned hair loss.

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Figures

Figure 1
Figure 1
Hamilton classification of male pattern hair loss. Type III has not been included in this figure as a large variety of conditions were included in this type[2]
Figure 2
Figure 2
Ogata classification of patterned hair loss[3]
Figure 3
Figure 3
Norwood's classification of patterned hair loss in males[5]
Figure 4
Figure 4
Bouhanna classification of hair loss among European Caucasians[6]
Figure 5
Figure 5
Blanchard's evolutionary staging of hair loss[7]
Figure 6
Figure 6
Koo's classification of male pattern baldness. (a) M type (b) C type (c) O type (d) U type (e) MO type (f) CO type[9]
Figure 7
Figure 7
Ludwig's classification of hair loss among females[10]
Figure 8
Figure 8
Ebling and Rook five-stage classification of female pattern of hair loss
Figure 9
Figure 9
Savin's pictorial grading of female pattern hair loss[11]
Figure 10
Figure 10
Sinclair's self-reporting photographic measure of female pattern of hair loss[13]
Figure 11
Figure 11
Basic and specific (BASP) classification of hair loss[15]
See this image and copyright information in PMC

References

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    1. Hamilton JB. Patterned loss of hair in man: Types and incidence. Ann N Y Acad Sci. 1951;53:708–28. - PubMed
    1. Ogata T. Development of patterned alopecia. Sogo Rinsho. 1953;2:101–6.
    1. Setty LR. Hair patterns of the scalp of white and Negro males. Am J Phys Anthropol. 1970;33:49–56. - PubMed
    1. Norwood OT. Male pattern baldness: Classification and incidence. South Med J. 1975;68:1359–65. - PubMed