What is the HairDX genetic test?
The HairDX genetic test for Pattern Hair Loss (Androgenetic Alopecia) is a screening
test for predicting hair loss.
The objective of the HairDX screening test, is to identify Pattern Hair Loss prior
to the onset of symptoms, allowing diagnosis in an earlier or preclinical stage,
so that treatment can be initiated at a time when intervention has a greater likelihood of success.
Why should I take the HairDX test?
Current diagnostic of hair loss relies on visual observation of hair thinning. When
hair thinning is visible you have probably lost about 50% of your hair in that area
of your scalp.
Because, the only FDA approved medications to combat hair loss, minoxidil and finasteride,
are most effective at stabilizing hair loss rather then re-growth, the earlier you
can predict Female Pattern Hair Loss, the more likely you are to save your hair.
The HairDX genetic screening test for Pattern Hair Loss helps you assess your risk for hair
loss and can offer you the opportunity for early medical intervention prior to visible signs
of hair loss, allowing you to retain your hair.
Who should use the HairDX test?
The HairDX genetic test for Pattern Hair Loss is most appropriate for men and women 18 years of age or older who are concerned about hair loss.
It is also useful for men and women without hair loss that have relatives suffering from hair loss, as familial inheritance is difficult to predict by observation alone.
How is the HairDX test performed?
The HairDX genetic test kit is available through qualified doctors. Your genetic sample is collected using a cheek swab, and the sample is mailed for analysis to the HairDX laboratory. Once the genetic analysis is complete, your test results
will be reported to your doctor.
What will the results mean for women?
The HairDX genetic test for Female Pattern Hair Loss provides women with a score, called the CAG repeat score. A smaller CAG test score is associated with a higher risk for significant hair loss (Ludwig grade II or III hair loss) while a larger test score is associated with a lower risk for hair loss.
Women who have a smaller CAG test score should be advised that they are at a higher risk for significant hair loss (Ludwig grade II or III hair loss). According to scientists, the percentage of the female population with a CAG test score of 15 or less, NOT suffering from a Ludwig grade II or III hair loss was only a 2.3%.
These women may wish to consult with a physician specializing in hair restoration, who can develop a plan to monitor and treat early hair loss. For example, such women may be good candidates for minoxidil, especially if treatment is started early.
In contrast, women who have a larger CAG test score can be reassured that they are at low risk for significant hair loss. This avoids unnecessary concern or expense over premature hair loss.
What will the results mean for men?
The HairDX genetic test for Male Pattern Hair Loss provides information on the presence of a specific variation in the androgen receptor gene (AR), found on the X chromosome. The variant AR causes changes in the hair follicle's response to dihydrotestosterone, leading to alterations in the hair growth cycle.
- The variant AR is found in more than 95 percent of bald men—60 percent of men who have the variant AR will develop baldness by age 40.
- HairDX also provides information on a less common AR variant that predicts a very low risk of early-onset androgenetic alopecia—more than 85 percent of men who have this variant will not have hair loss by age 40.
Men who test positive for the variant AR should be advised that they are at a high risk of developing early-onset Male Pattern Hair Loss. These men may wish to consult with a physician specializing in hair restoration, who can develop a plan to monitor and treat early hair loss. For example, such men may be good candidates for finasteride (Propecia), especially if treatment is started early.
In contrast, men without the variant AR can be reassured that they are at low risk of early-onset Male Pattern Hair Loss. This avoids unnecessary concern or expense over premature hair loss.
What about safety and confidentiality?
There are no known risks associated with using the HairDX genetic test. Testing is performed at a CLIA-certified laboratory with excellent quality assurance. Patients can be assured that the test results are strictly confidential, delivered via a secure website.
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