An Epidemiological Study of 198 Cases of Primary Cicatricial Alopecia in Iran

Background: Cicatricial alopecia or scarring alopecia, is a group of trichologic emergency disorders characterized by hair follicle destruction and permanent loss of hair. The aim of this cross-sectional study is to evaluate epidemiological and clinicopathological characteristics of cicatricial alopecia in Isfahan community.

Materials and Methods: 198 patients with proven diagnosis of cicatricial alopecia by biopsy from 2008 to 2015 included. Data were obtained through filled questionnaires by patients. Descriptive statistical methods were used for analyzing the results.

Results: 198 patients including 126 female (63.6%) and 72 male (36.4%) participated in this study. 69.6% of patients suffered from lichen planopilaris (LPP) (85 female and 53 male), 22.2% discoid lupus erythematosus (DLE) (31 female and 13 male), 6% Folliculitis decalvans (6 female and 6 male), 1% pseudopelade of brocq (2 female and no male) and 1% Follicular mucinosis (2 female and no male).

Conclusion: Cicatricial alopecia in women is more common than men and the most common type of cicatricial alopecia is LPP. Early diagnosis and treatment can reduce the burden of psychosocial problems.