Cicatricial alopecia: all you need to know

What is cicatricial alopecia?

Cicatricial alopecia or scarring alopecia is a type of hair loss that occurs when hair follicles are destroyed and replaced by scar tissue, resulting in permanent hair loss. This condition may be caused by autoimmune diseases, infections, genetic disorders, or inflammatory processes.

Primary cicatricial alopecia or scarring hair loss is characterized by the appearance of scar tissue on the scalp.
Primary cicatricial alopecia or scarring hair loss is characterized by the appearance of scar tissue on the scalp.

Cicatricial alopecia or pattern hair loss?

The main difference between cicatricial alopecia and pattern hair loss is the presence or absence of permanent damage to hair follicles. In cicatricial alopecia, hair follicles are destroyed and replaced by scar tissue. Forms of scarring alopecia are central centrifugal cicatricial alopecia (CCCA) and frontal fibrosing lopecia (FFA). This type of alopecia is often associated with swelling, redness, pain or changes in the texture of the scalp.

On the other hand, pattern hair loss does not involve permanent damage to the hair follicle. In this case, the follicle remains intact, which means that hair loss is usually reversible. Common causes include hereditary factors, stress, hormonal changes, underlying medical conditions, or medical treatments.

How do I know if I have cicatricial alopecia?

You must visit a hair doctor to assess your hair. Signs that may suggest cicatricial alopecia include itching, pain, redness, or a burning sensation on the scalp.

The doctor may perform a detailed physical examination, review the patient’s medical history, and possibly order a scalp biopsy to examine the tissue under a microscope. This test helps to determine whether the hair follicles have been replaced by scar tissue, thus confirming the diagnosis.

Go to an experienced hair clinic to prevent further hair loss.
Go to an experienced hair clinic to prevent further hair loss.

Cicatricial alopecia treatment

Treatment focuses on stopping the progression of the disease and alleviating associated symptoms. It may often involve anti-inflammatory drugs or biological therapies to reduce the underlying inflammation. Already when the disease is controlled, some people opt for hair transplant procedures to improve their appearance.

If you want to know what kind of hair disorders you have, schedule your appointment at an experienced hair clinic like Capilea Mexico. My name is Dr. Héctor Treviño, hair doctor and director of Capilea, and we are ready to help your hair growth and restore your confidence.