Lichen Simplex Chronicus on the Scalp: Broom Fibers on Dermoscopy; Gear Wheel Sign and Hamburger Sign on Histopathology

January 2020 in “ Indian dermatology online journal ”

Sandip Agrawal, Rachita Dhurat, Smita Ghate, Aseem Sharma, Ravina Surve, Sanober Burzin Daruwalla

lichen simplex chronicus scalp hair loss itching dermoscopy broom hair fibers histopathology gear wheel sign hamburger sign hair shaft splitting sebaceous gland trichotillomania emotional stress topical corticosteroids psychotherapy LSC

TLDR Lichen simplex chronicus on the scalp can be diagnosed by specific hair and skin signs and treated with corticosteroids and therapy.

The document discussed two cases of lichen simplex chronicus (LSC) on the scalp, characterized by localized hair loss and severe itching. Dermoscopic examination revealed broom hair fibers, while histopathological findings included the gear wheel sign and the hamburger sign, indicating hair shaft splitting and reduced sebaceous gland size. The study highlighted the importance of these diagnostic features in distinguishing LSC from other conditions like trichotillomania. Emotional stress was noted as a potential trigger for LSC, and treatment options included topical corticosteroids and psychotherapy.

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