by Barbara J. Roberson
(Mineola, TX)
Some years ago I started noticing my hair falling out. Females on both sides of my family experiencebalding from thetop and around the sides. I had a scalp biopsy done and was told I had Lactenplatus (I guess it's spelled right)and my hair will never grow back. My scalp itches all the time and I constantly wear a wig or scarf on my head because I am embarrassed. I am now 70yrs old and still have a bald top andsides. Nothing I have tried works. Isthere any help?
Dear Barbara Roberson,
I think the results of your biopsy best match a condition called Lichen Planus and when it involves the scalp it is referred to as Lichen Planopilaris. The cause of this condition is unknown and it can cause scarring and injury to the hair follicles that can lead to permanent baldness. However, treatment with oral anti-inflammatory medications such as plaquenil or doxycycline combined with topical and intralesional injections of steroid medications can eliminate the symptoms you describe of itching or scalp irritation and stop the progression of the disease and preserve as much hair as possible. It seems as though you need treatment to get relief of the symptoms you are experiencing at the least.
I am the author of the forthcoming book Dr. Weaver's Black Hair Loss Guide: How to Stop Thinning Hair and Prevent Permanent Baldness which will provide explanations of these type of conditions. If you would like to know when the book will be released, send me an email to DrWeaver@DrSeymourWeaver.com
Dr. Weaver