Is this male pattern baldness or something else?

To determine if it's male pattern baldness, consider the pattern of hair loss. Male pattern baldness typically starts with a receding hairline or thinning at the crown and follows a specific progression. If hair loss is sudden, patchy, or accompanied by other symptoms like itching or redness, it may indicate another condition such as alopecia areata or a scalp issue. Consulting a dermatologist can provide a definitive diagnosis.