TLDR Lichen planopilaris patients are more likely to have hypothyroidism.
This systematic review and meta-analysis investigated the association between lichen planopilaris (LPP), a scarring alopecia, and hypothyroidism. Analyzing seven studies with 1,664 LPP patients, the meta-analysis found an increased prevalence of hypothyroidism in LPP patients compared to controls, with an odds ratio of 1.75. Although the precise link remains unclear, shared T-cell/cytokine pathways and overlapping HLA restrictions are potential explanations. The study highlights the need for thyroid evaluations in LPP patients and suggests further research stratifying by LPP subtype. Limitations include the inability to assess LPP severity or establish the temporal relationship between hypothyroidism and LPP.
19 citations
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April 2018 in “International Journal of Dermatology” People with Lichen Planopilaris are more likely to have autoimmune diseases, especially Systemic Lupus Erythematosus, and less likely to have diabetes and some other common conditions.
48 citations
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May 2008 in “Drug Discovery Today: Disease Mechanisms” Hair follicles offer promising targets for delivering drugs to treat hair and skin conditions.
August 2025 in “Frontiers in Immunology” Primary cicatricial alopecia is linked to various health issues, indicating broader systemic problems.
44 citations
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November 1998 in “Australasian Journal of Dermatology” Accurate diagnosis is key for treating different kinds of hair loss, and immune response variations may affect the condition and treatment results.
38 citations
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January 2019 in “International Journal of Women's Dermatology” The document concluded that more research is needed to find the best treatment for Frontal fibrosing alopecia.
291 citations
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January 2014 in “The Scientific World Journal” Lichen Planus is a less common condition affecting skin and mucous membranes, with various types and associated risk factors, challenging to diagnose, significantly impacts life quality, and may have a risk of cancerous changes in oral lesions.
