Bitemporal Alopecia: A Unique Pattern Variant of Alopecia

The document discusses a case of bitemporal alopecia, a distinct noninflammatory nonscarring pattern variant of alopecia, in a 31-year-old Black woman. Despite previous treatments with topical minoxidil and Lidex solution, as well as avoiding tight braiding, the patient's hair loss continued. A hair transplant was ultimately chosen as the treatment method. The histologic examination showed features typically seen in "traction alopecia," including terminal hairs, relative retention of vellus hairs, and the presence of fibrous streamers. The patient had loss of terminal hairs but did not have fibrosis of the hair follicles that would indicate scarring. The document concludes that bitemporal alopecia is a distinct variant of alopecia that previously fell under the umbrella of "traction alopecia." It suggests that further research is needed to understand the pathologic mechanism of the disease and improve treatment outcomes.