Efficacy and Adverse Effects of Oral Janus Kinase Inhibitor Use in Patients With Lichen Planopilaris: A Retrospective Case Series and Systematic Review

Lichen Planopilaris (LPP) is an autoimmune condition causing permanent hair loss and fibrosis, often misdiagnosed. Treatments include pioglitazone, topical corticosteroids, anti-inflammatory medication, and Jak inhibitors.

The conversation is about using Xeljanz for hair regrowth in individuals with LPP. The user is seeking experiences and expectations from others who have tried this treatment.

The user is experiencing diffuse thinning and inflammation despite using 2.5mg dutasteride daily, ciclopirox, and ketoconazole shampoos. They are considering treatments like hydroxychloroquine and JAK inhibitors due to suspected scarring alopecia and have faced challenges in obtaining a scalp biopsy.

Men with hair loss might have lichen planopilaris (LPP), which can mimic androgenetic alopecia, leading to misdiagnosis and ineffective treatment with finasteride or dutasteride. Proper diagnosis, including biopsies, is crucial to distinguish between androgenetic alopecia and conditions like LPP.

Excess sebum rich in cholesterol and triglycerides can lead to hair loss through inflammation, with treatments like Ciclopirox shampoo, Benzoyl Peroxide shampoo, and Clindamycin gel recommended for managing conditions like seborrheic dermatitis and folliculitis. Pioglitazone is suggested for Lichen Planopilaris, while Omega-3s and reducing processed foods may improve sebum quality, though genetic factors play a significant role.

The user discusses their experience with diffuse unpatterned alopecia and acquired progressive hair kinkering, noting improvements with treatments including biotin, pantothenic acid, finasteride, ketoconazole, and zinc pyrithione shampoo. They report thicker, healthier hair and improved scalp condition, attributing success mainly to biotin, pantothenic acid, and finasteride.