Scarring Alopecia

Scarring alopecia or cicatricial alopecia refers to a group of disorders, that cause scarring and hair loss. Hair loss caused by scarring alopecia is permanent, as the destroyed hair follicles are replaced with scar tissues. Both the sexes can be affected by this condition, which accounts for about 3% of total cases of hair loss. Below here is a brief discussion about the causes, symptoms and treatment of this rare disorder.

Scarring Alopecia Causes
Scarring alopecia is basically classified into two forms, primary and secondary scarring alopecia. In primary alopecia, hair follicles are destroyed by the inflammatory cells like, neutrophils and lymphocytes, and it can have an association with autoimmune disorders like discoid and systemic lupus erythematosus. This type of cicatricial alopecia is further classified, depending on the particular type of inflammatory cell involved in the process. It is believed that this form of hair loss results, when the stem cells and sebaceous glands, located in the upper part of the hair follicles are destroyed by the inflammatory process.

Secondary scarring alopecia, on the other hand, is typically caused by burn, injury or severe infections. Apart from these, cicatricial alopecia can be caused by some rare conditions like, lichen planus, aplasia cutis congenita, folliculitis decalvans, granulomatous diseases, scleroderma, inflammation of the hair follicles, viral, bacterial or fungal infections, etc. Scalp ringworm can also be one of the causes.

Scarring Alopecia Symptoms
It may not present any symptom, other than gradual loss of hair and scarring. Occasionally, it cam be accompanied by symptoms like, itching and a burning sensation. Itching caused by this condition can be quite intense and severe. Initially, cicatricial (scarring) alopecia can cause some small hairless patches on the scalp, which can gradually expand over a period of time. If looked at closely, one can observe that the bald patches caused by this condition have ragged edges. In addition to these, redness, fluid filled blisters or pustules and scarring can occur in the affected area.

Scarring Alopecia Diagnosis and Treatment
The characteristic symptoms of cicatricial alopecia can be of great help in the diagnosis of the condition. However, a confirmed diagnosis would require scalp biopsy, which can help to throw light on the type of inflammation and the type of scarring alopecia. Along with scalp biopsy, a detailed analysis of the symptoms, the skin of the affected area and the pattern of hair loss are also required for a complete diagnosis.

The treatment options for cicatricial alopecia, on the other hand depends on the underlying causes or disorders. Usually, steroids are employed for treating the condition, if lymphocytes are found to be responsible for destroying the hair follicles. Though, corticosteroid creams are most commonly used for treating this condition, steroid injections are also required at times. Sometimes, steroid drugs are used along with isotretinoin and antibiotics for the treatment.

If cicatricial alopecia is caused by bacterial infection, then antibiotics can be employed for treatment, while for fungal infections, antifungal drugs can prove quite effective. If all these treatment options fail to prevent the destruction of the hair follicles, then surgery has to be performed to treat the bald patches. Subsequently, hair transplantation can be carried out to reduce the appearance of baldness. This can be done by removing hair from other parts of the scalp to the area affected by this problem.

For effective treatment, as well as to prevent further hair loss, it is very important to talk to a dermatologist at the earliest. Though, the damage caused by this condition is irreversible and permanent, early treatment can help to prevent the scarring and baldness to expand to a larger area. So, consult a dermatologist on observing any scarring and hair loss on your scalp.