A Systematic Approach to Afro-Textured Hair Disorders
April 2014
in “
Dermatologic Clinics
”
dermatoscopy trichoscopy CCCA alopecia areata androgenetic alopecia traction alopecia DLE LPP FFA DCS PA scarring alopecia nonscarring alopecia pinpoint white dots biopsies central centrifugal cicatricial alopecia discoid lupus erythematosus lichen planopilaris frontal fibrosing alopecia dissecting cellulitis of the scalp pseudopelade of Brocq
TLDR Dermatoscopy helps diagnose hair and scalp disorders in people with Afro-textured hair, but more research is needed for better understanding and treatment.
The document reviews the application of dermatoscopy for diagnosing hair and scalp disorders in individuals with Afro-textured hair, noting the lack of research compared to white populations. It details dermatoscopic findings for various conditions such as CCCA, alopecia areata, androgenetic alopecia, traction alopecia, DLE, LPP, FFA, DCS, and PA, and discusses the challenges in diagnosing scarring alopecia due to unique features like pinpoint white dots in African ancestry individuals. The document emphasizes that while trichoscopy has reduced the need for biopsies in nonscarring alopecias and aids in differential diagnosis, biopsies are still essential for confirming scarring alopecias. Dermatoscopy is highlighted as a tool for selecting biopsy sites and improving pathologic diagnosis rates, with a call for more research to enhance understanding of scalp diseases in patients with Afro-textured hair. The document appears to be a general review without a specific study population.
