Cicatricial Alopecia

Cicatricial alopecia, also known as scarring alopecia, is a group of chronic inflammatory scalp disorders where destruction of the hair follicles occurs which causes permanent hair loss. This form of Alopecia can be irreversible, which makes early detection of the issue crucial to prevent any further hair loss. 

Scarring alopecia can create small bumps patches or even large areas of hair loss. Symptoms that may be experienced are burning, itching, pain, or tenderness in the impacted areas. The patient may notice central hair texture changes, dry hair, brittle hair, focal broken hairs that grow slower than the rest of the scalp, and eventually density changes.

The major types of Cicatricial Alopecia are Lichen Planopilaris (LP), Central Centrifugal Cicatricial Alopecia (CCCA), Discoid Lupus Erythematosus (DLE), Frontal Fibrosing Alopecia (FFA), and Folliculitis Decalvans. This condition can be caused by autoimmune responses, external triggers, and genetics. 

To treat the issue, anti-inflammatory medication can be given to treat any inflammation to stop further damage. Treatments consist of oral, topical, and injectable options. 

Hair transplant surgery may not be an option for these patients as the inflammation necessary to heal may trigger the scarring inflammatory process.