Rare Concurrence of Alopecia Areata in the Setting of the Lipedematous Scalp
September 2022
in “
The American journal of dermatopathology/American journal of dermatopathology
”
Studysummary This case report highlights that lipedematous scalp and alopecia areata may coexist and that precise diagnosis requires histopathologic examination.
Our plain-language summary. Not medical advice or a treatment recommendation. Consult a qualified healthcare professional before changing treatment. Full disclaimer
The document discusses a case of alopecia areata occurring alongside lipedematous scalp (LS), a condition characterized by a thickened scalp due to an increased subcutaneous fat layer. This combination can be misdiagnosed as lipedematous alopecia (LA), which involves hair loss and shortened hairs. However, histopathologic examination revealed a thickened subcutaneous fat layer and hair bulb inflammation, distinguishing it from LA. The patient's hair regrowth was noticeable after treatment with topical steroids, minoxidil, oral compound glycyrrhizin, and vitamin D. The report emphasizes that LS and alopecia areata can coexist, and accurate diagnosis requires histopathologic examination.