Cicatricial or scarring alopecia comprises diverse groups of scalp disorders that result in permanent hair loss. This destructive process can occur as a primary or secondary cicatricial alopecia.
There are Two Main Types of Cicatricial Alopecia
Primary cicatricial alopecia: This is a group of idiopathic (unknown cause) inflammatory processes that attack the hair follicles, leading to their destruction.
Secondary cicatricial alopecia: This type is caused by external factors that damage the scalp and hair follicles. These factors can include:
Regardless of the type, cicatricial alopecia leads to the replacement of healthy hair follicles with scar tissue. Because of this scarring, hair cannot regrow in the affected areas.
Don't Ignore the Signs. Our Experts Guide You on Cicatricial Alopecia & Treatment.
Corticosteroids, either applied topically or taken orally, may help reduce inflammation and slow down the progression of the condition. Other medications such as antibiotics or antimalarials may also be prescribed in certain cases. Minoxidil 2% solution has shown to be effective, but hair transplant is the best treatment.
Immunomodulators
Drugs that suppress the immune system may be used to control the inflammatory response causing hair loss, such as cyclosporine or methotrexate.