Machine Learning Predicts Scarring Progression in Lichen Planopilaris: A Multidimensional Model Integrating Trichoscopy, Vitamin D, and Diagnostic Timelines

September 2025 in “ International Journal of Medical Informatics ”

Khaled Seetan, Almu’atasim Khamees, Raghad Yousef Yassin, Saleh A Ba-Shammakh, Amir Majdi Moh’d

lichen planopilaris scarring alopecia vitamin D trichoscopy autoimmune comorbidities

Studysummary A machine learning model can predict scarring in lichen planopilaris using factors like vitamin D levels and diagnostic delay. Our plain-language summary of this paper — not a Tressless recommendation.

This study, involving 312 patients, developed a machine learning model to predict scarring progression in lichen planopilaris (LPP), a form of scarring alopecia. Key predictors of rapid disease progression include diagnostic delay, vitamin D insufficiency, trichoscopic severity, and autoimmune comorbidities. The model integrates clinical, trichoscopic, and immunological data, offering a practical tool for risk assessment and management. The study emphasizes the importance of comprehensive initial assessments and risk stratification to improve patient outcomes and suggests future integration of the model into clinical practice for real-time decision support.

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research Off-Label Use of Biologics and Janus Kinase Inhibitors for Scarring Alopecias: A Narrative Review

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research A Three-Step Diagnostic Algorithm for Alopecia: Pattern Analysis in Trichoscopy

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This study introduced a non-invasive, three-step diagnostic algorithm for alopecia that combines clinical and trichoscopic features to accurately identify alopecia subtypes, potentially reducing reliance on invasive histopathology.

research JAK Inhibitors in the Treatment of Lichen Planopilaris

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research Lichen Planopilaris and Frontal Fibrosing Alopecia: Review and Update of Diagnostic and Therapeutic Features

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This comprehensive literature review highlighted that lichen planopilaris and frontal fibrosing alopecia, both primary scarring alopecias, are diagnosed via scalp biopsy, with no standardized treatments available, necessitating individualized therapeutic approaches based on patient characteristics.

research Frontal Fibrosing Alopecia Shows Robust T Helper 1 and Janus Kinase 3 Skewing

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In this study, researchers observed that follicular damage and stem cell loss in frontal fibrosing alopecia may be mediated by immune attacks at the bulge region, suggesting potential for JAK/STAT-targeting treatments to prevent progression.

research Diffuse Variants of Scalp Lichen Planopilaris: Clinical, Trichoscopic, and Histopathologic Features of 40 Patients

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This study reviewed 40 patients with scalp symptoms and identified a new variant of diffuse lichen planopilaris in 20 individuals, suggesting these conditions should be considered in similar cases.

research Lichen Planopilaris: Retrospective Study on the Characteristics and Treatment of 291 Patients

48 citations , November 2018 in “Journal of dermatological treatment”

In a study reviewing 291 patients with lichen planopilaris, findings revealed that women were more commonly affected than men, cyclosporine and methotrexate were most effective in achieving remission, and 5-alpha reductase inhibitors and systemic retinoids were particularly beneficial for frontal fibrosing alopecia.

research Tofacitinib for the Treatment of Lichen Planopilaris: A Case Series

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This study found that treatment with oral tofacitinib, alone or with other therapies, was associated with clinical improvement in most patients with recalcitrant lichen planopilaris.

research Pharmacologic Inhibition of JAK-STAT Signaling Promotes Hair Growth

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This study observed that applying JAK-STAT pathway inhibitors to mouse and human skin led to rapid hair growth by inducing the anagen phase of hair follicles.

research A Case Series of 46 Patients With Lichen Planopilaris: Demographics, Clinical Evaluation, and Treatment Experience

47 citations , June 2014 in “Journal of Dermatological Treatment”

This retrospective review found that while intralesional corticosteroids provided symptomatic improvement for lichen planopilaris, hydroxychloroquine with topical corticosteroids led to higher remission rates but did not result in visible hair regrowth.

research Frontal Fibrosing Alopecia: A Multicenter Review of 355 Patients

339 citations , February 2014 in “Journal of The American Academy of Dermatology”

This study found that eyelash loss, facial papules, and body hair involvement were linked to severe frontal fibrosing alopecia, and antiandrogens were the most effective treatment.

research Lichen Planopilaris Is Characterized By Immune Privilege Collapse Of The Hair Follicle's Epithelial Stem Cell Niche

220 citations , June 2013 in “The Journal of Pathology”

This study found that immune privilege collapse in the hair follicle bulge and associated immune responses may contribute significantly to the pathogenesis of lichen planopilaris, suggesting a potential autoimmune basis for the disease.

research Primary Cicatricial Alopecias: Clinicopathology of 112 Cases

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This study reviewed the epidemiology and treatment of inflammatory cicatricial alopecias and highlighted the importance of scalp biopsies for accurate diagnosis in a mixed ethnic population at a university hair clinic.