What's New in Cicatricial Alopecia?
January 2013
in “
Indian Journal of Dermatology, Venereology and Leprology
”
cicatricial alopecia primary cicatricial alopecia hair follicles scar tissue inflammatory cells autoimmune processes hair follicle stem cells genetic predisposition dermoscopy reflectance confocal microscopy immunosuppression antimicrobials PPARγ agonists surgical options platelet-rich plasma therapies psychosocial impact genetic mechanisms molecular mechanisms PCA PRP
TLDR New treatments and early diagnosis methods for permanent hair loss due to scar tissue are important for managing its psychological effects.
The document from 2013 reviews cicatricial alopecia (CA), particularly primary cicatricial alopecia (PCA), which is characterized by permanent hair loss due to the destruction of hair follicles and replacement by scar tissue. It classifies CA into different types based on the underlying inflammatory cells involved and suggests a stable versus unstable categorization for treatment decisions. The review discusses the pathogenesis of PCA, including autoimmune processes and the destruction of hair follicle stem cells, and considers genetic predisposition. It highlights the importance of early diagnosis using tools like dermoscopy and reflectance confocal microscopy, and the management of PCA through immunosuppression or antimicrobials depending on the type. New treatments such as PPARγ agonists and advances in surgical options like platelet-rich plasma therapies are mentioned. The document underscores the need for aggressive treatment to manage the psychosocial impact and calls for further research into the genetic and molecular mechanisms of PCA.
