DUPA nad DPA

Diffuse Unpatterned Alopecia (DUPA) is a condition where the hair has miniaturization (over 30%) throughout the scalp without a particular pattern to it. It is a relatively stable condition that may appear at any age. Senile alopecia in old age has similar features. DUPA in women with pattern hair loss is relatively common esp. in post menopausal cases. DUPA is believed to be, genetic and hormonal. In 50 % case it responds to Finasteride 1mg by 12 months; in slowing down its progress and in about half of male patients it get better by reversal with Finasteride. Half of patients have no effect of the medications. Using minoxidil would require a massive application to the entire scalp, it is worth trying. I also prescribe some nutrients like vitamins, minerals and amino acids. Cosmetic products like Dermmatch or Toppik alone or in combination are very useful for both DUPA and DPA and they are safe to use for regular use. The significance of this condition is that Hair Transplant in this condition may not be very satisfactory and therefore are often refused.

There is another condition called Diffuse Patterned Alopecia (DPA) is an androgenetic alopecia characterized by diffuse thinning in the front, top, and vertex of the scalp in conjunction with a stable permanent zone in male ( one can compare it with female pattern hair loss). Usual pattern loss in male is by beginning of loss in frontal or crown area and but in DPA the hair loss starts in the front, mid scalp and crown altogether. Diffuse Patterned Alopecia is usually associated with the persistence of the frontal hairline the hairline of the Norwood II or III type hair loss.