TLDR Gabapentin helps with scalp itch, dutasteride works for frontal fibrosing alopecia, and more research is needed for better PCA treatments.
The response to Dr. Bhoyrul's commentary on the treatment of primary cicatricial alopecia (PCA) acknowledges the lack of randomized controlled trials, with current evidence largely based on case reports and expert opinion. The authors highlight their clinical experience with over 1,000 PCA patients, noting gabapentin's efficacy in reducing scalp pruritus. They agree with Bhoyrul on the documented efficacy of dutasteride for frontal fibrosing alopecia and caution the use of pioglitazone due to potential adverse effects. Phototherapy is contraindicated for photosensitive conditions like discoid lupus erythematosus. The authors emphasize the need for scalp biopsies before treatment and correct a dosage error for rifampin and clindamycin in treating folliculitis decalvans. They call for more robust clinical trials to establish comprehensive treatment guidelines for PCA.
August 2023 in “Journal of The American Academy of Dermatology” Early treatment is key for permanent hair loss disorders, with options ranging from medications and phototherapy to immunomodulators and antibiotics, depending on severity and type.
226 citations
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February 1999 in “British Journal of Dermatology” Folliculitis decalvans and tufted folliculitis are related, and a new treatment with rifampicin and clindamycin is effective.
2 citations
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January 2024 in “Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology” Treating primary cicatricial alopecia is difficult and requires evidence-based methods.
August 2023 in “Journal of The American Academy of Dermatology” Early treatment is key for permanent hair loss disorders, with options ranging from medications and phototherapy to immunomodulators and antibiotics, depending on severity and type.
61 citations
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January 2019 in “American Journal of Clinical Dermatology” The cause of Frontal Fibrosing Alopecia is unclear, diagnosis involves clinical evaluation and various treatments exist, but their effectiveness is uncertain.
3 citations
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December 2022 in “Cells” Cannabinoids like CBD and THC may help treat non-cancer skin diseases, but more research is needed.
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.
