TLDR Linear cutaneous lupus erythematosus on the scalp is rare, often affects young Asians, and can be treated with specific medications.
Linear alopecia is a rare presentation of lupus erythematosus, with only 16 documented cases of chronic cutaneous lupus erythematosus following Blaschko's lines prior to this study. The article reported 2 additional cases and reviewed the clinical and histologic features of this Blaschkoid linear variant. This form of lupus erythematosus was noted for its distinct linear configuration, younger age of presentation, higher prevalence among Asians, and minimal systemic involvement. Histologically, lesions were characterized by prominent mucin in the dermis and subcutaneous tissues. Diagnosis could often be suggested by histology alone in the right clinical context. Effective treatments included systemic and/or combination therapy with oral hydroxychloroquine, oral steroids, and/or intralesional steroids.
10 citations
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May 2017 in “Clinical and experimental dermatology” 8 citations
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January 2017 in “Acta Dermato Venereologica” Thorough clinical examination is crucial for diagnosing unusual alopecia.
34 citations
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December 2011 in “The Journal of Dermatology” A unique type of lupus panniculitis causes reversible hair loss on the scalp in East Asians.
26 citations
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January 2009 in “Annals of Dermatology” Two rare bald spots on the back of the scalp were found to be lupus, not alopecia areata.
149 citations
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July 2002 in “Dermatologic clinics” Patients with certain skin symptoms and high ANA titers should be monitored for potential systemic lupus.
2 citations
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December 2019 in “The Open Dermatology Journal” Linear Discoid Lupus Erythematosus of the scalp can cause hair loss and should be considered in similar cases.
10 citations
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June 2019 in “Case reports in dermatology” LALPS causes non-scarring hair loss along the Blaschko line, with unique trichoscopic findings.
19 citations
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August 2018 in “International Journal of Dermatology” Lupus panniculitis of the scalp causes linear hair loss and needs ongoing treatment to prevent recurrence and lupus.
46 citations
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June 2018 in “American Journal of Clinical Dermatology” Hair loss is common in lupus patients and can be permanent or reversible, depending on the type, with various treatments available.
January 2023 in “Skin appendage disorders” Hair loss is common in autoimmune diseases and can be an early sign of the condition, often requiring prompt treatment to prevent permanent damage.
