Lichen planopilaris is a rare inflammatory condition that results in patchy progressive permanent hair loss mainly on the scalp.
Three forms are recognised:
Lichen planopilaris is usually slowly progressive
Lichen planopilaris is suspected on the clinical presentation and careful examination of the mouth, nails and skin for evidence of lichen planus elsewhere.
Trichoscopy reveals absent follicles, white dots, tubular perifollicular scale and perifollicular erythema.
The diagnosis may be confirmed on a scalp biopsy that includes hairs with surrounding redness and scale at the edge of an area of hair loss. Lichen planopilaris is an example of a primary lymphocytic folliculitis.
However, it is not always possible to make a diagnosis on biopsy. Biopsy from an already scarred area of hair loss is unhelpful. Where there is only patchy scarring hair loss and no evidence of inflammation the diagnosis may not be able to be confirmed.
(Dr Delwyn Dyall-Smith FACD, Dermatologist)
Treatment should be sought and provided early as no treatment recovers hairs that have been lost and replaced by scarring. The aim of treatment is to slow progression of the disease and relieve symptoms. Hair loss may continue, although at a slower rate.
Response to treatment is variable and some published studies contradict others as to the efficacy. The best patients can expect is to stop progression of hair loss and to minimize scalp discomfort.
Lichen planopilaris (LPP) tends to be progressive, and the most effective treatments have response rates of only 10%.
Recently Low laser light therapy (LLLT) has shown potential effectiveness in scarring alopecia.
Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) is a promising new therapeutic treatment for people who have lichen planopilaris and may improve hair thickening in affected areas. Additional studies are warranted to elucidate the clinical benefit and optimal dosing strategies.
In conclusion, apart from LLLT, PRP is also effective in at least improving hair thickening which is a real cosmetic concern for patients.
(Jeffrey F. Scott)