Lichen Planopilaris
Synonyms
LPP,Overview
Lichen Planopilaris (LPP) is an uncommon, chronic inflammatory scalp condition that causes permanent, scarring hair loss. It is classified as a primary cicatricial (scarring) alopecia and is considered a follicular variant of lichen planus, where the body’s immune system mistakenly attacks hair follicles.
Symptoms
Lichen Planopilaris (LPP) is an inflammatory condition that causes permanent, scarring hair loss, primarily affecting the scalp. It is considered a variant of lichen planus, where the immune system (specifically T-cells) attacks hair follicles, leading to inflammation and destruction of the follicle
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Causes
Lichen planopilaris (LPP) is an inflammatory condition that causes permanent, scarring hair loss, typically on the scalp. While the exact, definitive cause of lichen planopilaris is unknown, it is widely believed to be an autoimmune disorder.
In this condition, the body’s immune system, specifically T-cells (a type of white blood cell), mistakenly attacks the hair follicles, leading to inflammation and subsequent scarring.
Prevention
There is no known way to entirely prevent Lichen Planopilaris (LPP) as it is a chronic, often unpredictable autoimmune condition. However, early diagnosis and prompt, consistent treatment are the most effective ways to prevent permanent hair loss and control the scarring process.
Diagnosis
Lichen planopilaris (LPP) is a form of primary lymphocytic folliculitis (scarring alopecia) that causes permanent hair loss, typically diagnosed through a combination of clinical examination, dermoscopy (trichoscopy), and scalp biopsy. It is characterized by inflammation, intense itching, pain, and burning around the hair follicles.
Prognosis
Lichen planopilaris (LPP) is a chronic, progressive, and inflammatory form of scarring alopecia (hair loss) that results in permanent hair loss if not treated promptly. The prognosis for LPP is variable; while the condition often becomes inactive (burns out) over time, the hair already lost usually does not grow back.
Treatment
Treatment for Lichen Planopilaris (LPP) aims to reduce inflammation, alleviate symptoms like itching and pain, and prevent further permanent hair loss, as hair in scarred areas usually cannot be regrown. Because LPP is a chronic, often erratic condition, treatments are frequently adjusted every 3 months based on disease activity.