Diffuse Lichen Planopilaris Masquerading as Diffuse Alopecia Areata

Published Date: 25th March 2024

Publication Authors: Meah N

Introduction
Lichen planopilaris (LPP) is a primary lymphocytic cicatricial alopecia that represents a form of follicular lichen planus.

Case Presentation
We describe a case of coexisting diffuse LPP and female pattern hair loss masquerading as diffuse alopecia areata in a 32-year-old female.

Discussion
In complex cases such as this, dermoscopy-guided vertical and horizontal biopsies from androgen sensitive and insensitive areas are helpful in increasing diagnostic yield. Prompt initiation of treatment is key to halting disease progression. Long-term follow-up is important as resolution of clinical signs does not always correlate with the absence of disease progression.

 

Yoo, LJH; Meah, N; Wall, D; McDonald, I. (2024). Diffuse Lichen Planopilaris Masquerading as Diffuse Alopecia Areata. Case Reports in Dermatology. 16(1), pp.83-87. [Online]. Available at: https://doi.org/10.1159/000538064 [Accessed 5 April 2024]

 

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