Lichen Planopilaris (LPP) is a rare inflammatory condition that primarily affects the scalp, leading to progressive, permanent hair loss. Today, we’ll be diving deep into this enigmatic condition, offering a comprehensive look at what it is, its causes, symptoms, and available treatments.
Homeopathy Treatment of Lichen Planopilaris
Our specially formulated Homeopathy treatment can help you if you are suffering with Lichen Planopilaris.
The treatment cannot help you grow the hair back, but we can slow the progression and destruction of hair follicle and gradually stop the diseases completely. The treatment being an auto-immune condition, we can help you control the destruction quickly with out tied and tested Homeopathy medicines.
What is Lichen Planopilaris?
LPP is a form of lichen planus, an autoimmune disease that impacts the skin or mucous membranes. The distinguishing feature of Lichen Planopilaris is that it specifically targets hair follicles, causing inflammation, scarring, and eventually hair loss. This disease most commonly affects women aged 30-60 years and is quite rare, impacting approximately 1 in 20,000 individuals.
Causes of Lichen Planopilaris
While the exact cause of LPP is still unknown, it’s thought to be related to the immune system attacking the hair follicles, leading to inflammation and hair loss. Certain factors such as genetics, hormonal imbalances, or environmental triggers may contribute to the development of LPP. Stress is thought to play a role in worsening the symptoms, though it’s not considered a direct cause.
Symptoms of Lichen Planopilaris
The main symptoms of Lichen Planopilaris include:
- Scalp Inflammation and Itching: The affected area may be red, swollen, and itchy, causing discomfort and the urge to scratch. However, scratching can worsen the condition and lead to further damage.
- Hair Loss: The most distinctive symptom of LPP is hair loss, which tends to occur in patches. Over time, these patches may merge and form larger areas of hair loss.
- Scarring: As LPP progresses, it can cause scarring in the affected areas due to the inflammation damaging hair follicles. Once scarring occurs, hair may not grow back, leading to permanent hair loss.
- Discoloration: In some cases, the affected area may develop a violet or gray hue, often circular or with a radial pattern.
Diagnosis
If you suspect you have LPP, consult with a dermatologist. A dermatologist will examine your scalp and may perform a skin biopsy to confirm the diagnosis. Although LPP shares some characteristics with other scalp conditions, such as alopecia areata and discoid lupus erythematosus, it can be differentiated through proper examination and testing.
Treatment of Lichen Planopilaris
There’s no known cure for LPP; however, treatments can help manage the symptoms and potentially slow the progression of hair loss. Common treatments for Lichen Planopilaris include:
- Topical Steroids: To manage itching and inflammation, your doctor may prescribe corticosteroid creams or ointments.
- Oral Medications: In more severe cases, oral medications like corticosteroids, hydroxychloroquine, or isotretinoin may be prescribed to manage the immune response and inflammation.
- Intralesional Steroid Injections: Injecting corticosteroids directly into the affected area can provide temporary relief for inflammation and itching.
- Immunosuppressant therapies: In some cases, medications like cyclosporine, azathioprine, or methotrexate can be used to modulate the immune response and alleviate symptoms.
- Hair Loss Management: For those experiencing hair loss, wigs, camouflaging products, and hair restoration techniques can be considered to effectively manage the hair loss and improve their confidence.
Remember, it’s essential to consult with a dermatologist to determine the appropriate course of action for your specific case.
Coping with Lichen Planopilaris
Dealing with Lichen Planopilaris can be emotionally challenging, as hair loss and scalp scarring may impact confidence and self-esteem. Support groups and therapy can often help address these concerns, providing an environment to share experiences and cope with the emotional challenges associated with LPP.
Armed with the knowledge of Lichen Planopilaris, its challenges, and available treatments, you can now better understand and approach this rare and unique condition, whether it impacts you or someone you know.