Oxidative stress tied to early-onset androgenetic alopecia

(HealthDay)—Younger patients with early-onset androgenetic alopecia (AGA) have increased oxidative stress, according to a study published online Dec. 16 in the Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology.

Hilal Kaya Erdogan, M.D., from Eskisehir Osmangazi University in Turkey, and colleagues evaluated the oxidative stress status in 33 male patients with early-onset AGA and 30 men without AGA between ages of 18 and 30 years old. Measurements included total oxidant levels (TOS), total antioxidant levels (TAS), and oxidative stress index (OSI).

The researchers observed no difference for TAS level between the patient and control groups. However, TOS and OSI were significantly higher in the patient group. There was a highly significant negative correlation between TAS level and both age and disease duration. However, when TAS, TOS, and OSI levels were evaluated by AGA stage, there was no significant difference between groups. OSI level was significantly higher in patients with a family history of AGA.

"There is need for further molecular studies on the role of oxidative stress in the etiopathogenesis of AGA," the authors write.