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HairDX unveils new genetic test for baldness
The Irvine-based company and its subsidiary today unveiled the latest genetic screening test for male pattern baldness.
By Susan BelknappPublished: October 29, 2008 01:55 AM
Pharmacogenomics research and development company PharmaGenoma Inc. and its subsidiary, HairDX LLC unveiled the next generation of genetic screening test for male pattern baldness. The test will be available immediately through qualified physicians.
By using the HairDX, a physician tests for the high-risk genetic variant that indicates a man has approximately a 70 percent chance of going bald. Conversely, the test can also identify those men who test negative that have approximately a 70 percent chance of not going bald.
The HairDX genetic test improves clinical validity and utility of existing tests and can also identify genetic markers on the Androgen Receptor (AR) gene as well as on Chromosome 20 (the chromosome rencent studies have linked to male-pattern baldness).
Visible signs of hair loss usually mean that a man has already lost up to 50 percent of his hair. Early detection through HairDX screening allows for the potential of early treatment.
"A recent study demonstrated that Propecia, the only FDA approved oral prescription medication for the treatment of male pattern baldness, is effective at preventing hair loss over a period of several years,” says Dr. Sharon Keene, chief medical officer for HairDX. “Doctors using the HairDX genetic screening test can offer a treatment plan to prevent hair loss in men of all ages before any visible signs of hair loss."
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By using the HairDX, a physician tests for the high-risk genetic variant that indicates a man has approximately a 70 percent chance of going bald. Conversely, the test can also identify those men who test negative that have approximately a 70 percent chance of not going bald. The HairDX genetic test improves clinical validity and utility of existing tests and can also identify genetic markers on the Androgen Receptor (AR) gene as well as on Chromosome 20 (the chromosome rencent studies have linked to male-pattern baldness). Visible signs of hair loss usually mean that a man has already lost up to 50 percent of his hair. Early detection through HairDX screening allows for the potential of early treatment. "A recent study demonstrated that Propecia, the only FDA approved oral prescription medication for the treatment of male pattern baldness, is effective at preventing hair loss over a period of several years,” says Dr. Sharon Keene, chief medical officer for HairDX. “Doctors using the HairDX genetic screening test can offer a treatment plan to prevent hair loss in men of all ages before any visible signs of hair loss." |
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