Replies to This Discussion

Permalink Reply by sallylwess on January 14, 2016 at 11:35pm

Have a biopsy. Then you will know.

Permalink Reply by Lauren on January 15, 2016 at 12:56am

I think it depends on how well the dermatologists understand hair loss and the different types there are. Many are very dismissive of hair loss and if you are in beginning stages may not notice because they didn't see your hair before. Can you google a dermatologist in your area that specializes in hair loss? Or you could ask for the biopsy because that is the best way to know for sure and would probably ease your mind if you are feeling like it really is something other than androgenetic alopecia. Mine hit around the same time as some very stressful events so of course the derms all told me it was stress related. It took going to a fourth derm to finally get the correct diagnosis and not just be dismissed. Good luck!

Permalink Reply by Tessa on January 16, 2016 at 5:42pm

I had a biopsy initially when my hair loss was mainly on arms and legs and negligible on my face. I was told it was androgenetic alopecia, which never settled in my mind as arms/legs are not typical of that. My latest dermatologist diagnosed FFA without another biopsy. Textbook symptoms, no need for biopsy!

Permalink Reply by Jacqui on January 19, 2016 at 5:01am

My Dermo took one look at me and said straight away FFA even though my loss is very slow.  She had seen it before and knew straight away.  If unsure push for a biopsy.  Androngenic alopecia would show up in blood tests I am assuming?