Lichen Planopilaris Treated With Thalidomide

A 41-year-old woman with lichen planopilaris, a form of scarring alopecia, showed significant hair regrowth after being treated with oral thalidomide, following unsuccessful treatments with steroids and hydroxychloroquine. Thalidomide, known for its anti-inflammatory effects, demonstrated potential as a treatment for lichen planopilaris, similar to its effects in related conditions like lichen planus and lupus erythematosus-associated alopecia. Despite its risks, thalidomide may offer a powerful alternative for severe cases unresponsive to conventional therapies. The patient experienced hair regrowth within 1 month of treatment, but was lost to follow-up after 18 months.