Lichen Planus Pigmentosus in North Africa: A Series of 17 Cases

November 2019 in “ Dermatology - Open Journal ”

H. Benchikhi

lichen planus pigmentosus frontal fibrosing alopecia tranexamic acid topical hydroquinone pigment incontinence basal vacuolization

Studysummary This study reports that Lichen planus pigmentosus is present in Moroccan patients but remains challenging to treat, with only some experiencing complete resolution of lesions after therapy. Our plain-language summary of this paper — not a Tressless recommendation.

The study reported on 17 cases of lichen planus pigmentosus (LPPig) in Moroccan patients, highlighting its presence in North Africa, a region where it was previously underreported. The study included 1 man and 16 women, with a mean age of 57.4 years. The condition predominantly affected the face, particularly the perioral area and forehead, and was associated with frontal fibrosing alopecia in 41% of cases. Some patients also had thyroiditis or diabetes mellitus. Histological analysis confirmed pigment incontinence and basal vacuolization. Treatment with tranexamic acid and topical hydroquinone showed limited success, with only 4 patients achieving complete resolution. The study concluded that LPPig is a challenging pigmentary disorder to treat, and its prevalence in North Africa may be underestimated.

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Research cited in this study

2 / 2 results

Facial and Extrafacial Lesions in an Ethnically Diverse Series of 91 Patients with Frontal Fibrosing Alopecia Followed at a Single Center

research Facial and Extrafacial Lesions in an Ethnically Diverse Series of 91 Patients with Frontal Fibrosing Alopecia Followed at a Single Center

17 citations , November 2018 in “Dermatology”

The authors concluded that Hispanic/Latino ethnicity, facial papules, and premenopausal status in patients with frontal fibrosing alopecia may indicate a susceptibility to more severe disease, potentially necessitating early treatment.

research Lichen Planus Pigmentosus and Its Variants: Review and Update

94 citations , October 2017 in “International Journal of Dermatology”

This narrative review discusses lichen planus pigmentosus, including its variations, associated triggers, and management strategies, but reports no new clinical results.