TLDR Combining cetirizine and topical steroids can effectively manage severe lichen planus pilaris.
This open-label clinical trial investigated the effectiveness of combining cetirizine (CTZ) and topical steroids in treating lichen planus pilaris (LPP) of the scalp, a condition leading to scarring alopecia. Twenty-one patients were treated with 30 mg of CTZ daily alongside topical steroids. The treatment stabilized the condition in 18 patients, reducing inflammation and symptoms such as erythema, follicular hyperkeratosis, and hair loss. One patient discontinued due to cardiac arrhythmia after 3 months. The study concluded that this combined therapy could be a safe and effective option for managing severe LPP cases.
155 citations,
June 2009 in “International Journal of Dermatology” Lichen planus is a skin condition that can resolve on its own, is linked to hepatitis C, and increases the risk of skin cancer.
98 citations,
May 2008 in “British Journal of Dermatology” There are many treatments for permanent hair loss disorders, but their effectiveness varies and there's no clear best option.
1 citations,
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6 citations,
January 2019 in “Indian Journal of Dermatology” About 12% of children in Kota, Rajasthan, experience hair loss, mainly due to fungal infections, with early treatment advised to prevent worsening.
A 21-year-old with lichen planopilaris was successfully treated, stopping disease progression and preventing crusts.
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May 2016 in “Aktuelle Dermatologie” Trichoscopy helps monitor inflammation in Lichen planopilaris.
36 citations,
May 2011 in “Dermatologic therapy” No treatments fully cure or prevent alopecia areata; some help but have side effects or need more research.
