TLDR Lupus can look like hair loss from alopecia areata but needs different treatment.
In 2002, a case study reported a patient with a history of lupus erythematosus who developed non-scarring alopecia, initially suspected to be alopecia areata. However, clinical examination and a scalp biopsy indicated the presence of lupus panniculitis. The biopsy showed lymphocytic inflammation around the deep segments of hair follicles and bulbs, hyalinization of fat, and mucinosis in the subcutaneous tissue. Treatment with topical corticosteroids, sun protection, and hydroxychloroquine led to the resolution of the skin lesions and alopecia. This case emphasized the need for accurate diagnosis between lupus panniculitis, alopecia areata, and discoid lupus erythematosus using clinical and histological analysis.
29 citations,
March 2001 in “Clinics in Dermatology” Steven Kossard classified lymphocyte-related hair loss into four patterns, each linked to different types of baldness.
127 citations,
September 1996 in “British Journal of Dermatology” Skin problems are very common in people with systemic lupus erythematosus and important for diagnosis.
1 citations,
March 2012 in “Indian Journal of Rheumatology” Most lupus patients in the study experienced hair loss, which greatly affected their mental and social well-being.
39 citations,
October 2018 in “Lupus Science & Medicine” Different types of hair loss in lupus need careful diagnosis for proper treatment.
July 2002 in “Australasian Journal of Dermatology” A woman with lupus had hair loss and skin issues that were successfully treated with medications.
3 citations,
March 2021 in “Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology” Early treatment of Lupus Erythematosus Alopecia can prevent permanent hair loss, and various medications are effective.
July 2002 in “Australasian Journal of Dermatology” Maintaining anticoagulation is crucial for patients with antiphospholipid syndrome.
