Androgenetic Alopecia From A to Z, Vol. 1: Basic Science, Diagnosis, Etiology, and Related Disorders

This reference volume conveys complete understanding and management of Androgenetic Alopecia and Female Pattern Hair Loss (AGA/FPHL). These are probably the most common adult (18-50 yrs.) health disorders besides dental caries, accounting for over 98% of hair loss cases in males and over 70% cases in females. The present volume, the first of three related volumes, is structured in 4 sections: 22 dedicated chapters, ranging from basic science (Biology, Anatomy, Physiology, Embryology), the etiology of adult, childhood & adolescent AGA/FPHL, diagnostic steps and evaluation, to related disorders and comorbidities. For the first time in the scientific literature, all pathogenic contributors of AGA/FPHL, including micro-inflammation, scalp vascularization, biochemical stress, aging, solar radiation, and the sebaceous gland, are examined in comprehensive, dedicated chapters. The effects of every hormone on AGA/FPHL, as well as the psychological impact of the condition, are explored in depth. An extensive chapter on childhood and adolescent AGA/FPHL, a more common than previously thought condition, is another unique feature. Finally, two extremely detailed sections are included on the pathogenic links of AGA/FPHL to life-threatening comorbidities: cardiovascular disease, metabolic syndrome, hypertension, insulin resistance, and prostatic disorders, with suggested guidelines on how to save lives of balding patients by adopting early screening strategies.

In providing a fully updated, thorough guide to this popular topic, this richly illustrated volume (over 200 figures, tables, and algorithms) offers the latest, evidence-based information on every aspect of AGA/FPHL causing hair loss to countless patients. Each subject is addressed according to learning and clinical needs, and the presented information is supported by a wealth of peer-reviewed papers. Every aspect of this condition is considered, including biology, diagnosis, etiology, from drug treatment, the influence of nutrition, lifestyle and food supplements, to related disorders, surgical hair restoration, hair care, and future treatment options. This handbook will be an invaluable conveying best management standards to readers, whether experienced practitioners, clinicians, dermatologists, surgeons or researchers interested in hair restoration.

Konstantinos Anastassakis MD, Ph.D. is Head & Neck Surgeon and Hair Transplant Surgeon, in Athens, Greece. Dr Anastassakis gained his medical degree from the Medical School of Semmelweis University of Budapest and finished his Head & Neck Surgery residency in the Athens General Hospital “G. Genimatas”. This was followed by a fellowship in Facial & Rhinoplastic Surgery in the Universitätsklinik für Hals-Nasen-Ohrenheilkunde, Kopf- und Halschirurgie, Ulm, Germany. He earned his Ph.D. from the Democritus University of Thrace, Greece, in 2010. Being among the few hair restoration surgeons awarded the “Experience Route” accreditation of the American Board of Hair Restoration Surgery (ABHRS),  the only certifying organization for hair transplant doctors worldwide. He sits as a member of the ABHRS oral examination board since 2016, he was elected to the ABHRS Board of Directors in 2018, then Treasurer in 2020, and Secretary in 2021. Dr. Anastassakis is a full member of the ISHRS (International Society of Hair Restoration Surgery) since 2009 and has been a keynote speaker, instructor, and chair in multiple ISHRS meetings. Since 2019 he is one of the 120 distinguished Fellow Members of the ISHRS, as well as the founder and President of the HAHRS, the Hellenic Academy of Hair Restoration Surgery. Dr. Anastassakis is also the author of the 891 page worth medical textbook “Androgenetic Alopecia, from A to Z” published in the Greek language in 2015, a handbook covering pathophysiology, drugs, supplements, lasers, surgical hair restoration, wigs, and hair care, summing up the latest knowledge on Androgenetic Alopecia. The felt need for better informed care also lead to building a Youtube channel with more than 250 videos on hair loss and hair restoration, that reached over 10 million views; for that endeavor Dr Anastassakis was awarded medical influencer in 2021.