Episode 2: Scarring Alopecia – Types, Diagnosis & Treatment Options

In Episode 2 of Let’s Talk About It With Kelly, presented by Freedom Clinic Toronto, host Kelly Ranney is joined by renowned Certified Clinical Trichologist John Ranney to discuss scarring alopecia, also known as cicatricial alopecia.

Scarring alopecia refers to a group of hair loss disorders in which inflammation damages and can permanently destroy the hair follicles. Unlike many non-scarring forms of hair loss, once a follicle has been replaced by scar tissue, it may no longer be capable of producing hair. This makes early recognition, accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment especially important.

John explains the different types of scarring alopecia and how they may present on the scalp. Conditions discussed include lichen planopilaris (LPP), frontal fibrosing alopecia (FFA), central centrifugal cicatricial alopecia (CCCA), dissecting cellulitis of the scalp, and discoid lupus erythematosus (DLE), along with other inflammatory conditions capable of causing permanent follicular damage.

Kelly and John explore warning signs that may accompany scarring alopecia, including hair loss or thinning, scalp redness, inflammation, itching, burning, tenderness, pain, scaling, pustules, crusting and changes around the hair follicles. Some forms may progress quietly, making professional assessment important when hair loss appears unusual or continues to worsen.

The episode also examines how scarring alopecia is diagnosed, including the role of trichoscopy, microscopic hair and scalp examination, clinical assessment by a dermatologist or trichologist, and scalp biopsy when necessary to confirm the diagnosis.

They discuss available treatment options for scarring alopecia, including topical, oral and injectable medications used to reduce inflammation and help slow or stabilize disease progression. Treatments may include corticosteroids, anti-inflammatory medications, immune-modulating therapies and other prescription treatments, depending on the specific type and severity of the condition.

Hair restoration options and procedures are also discussed, including when treatments designed to improve hair density may be considered after the inflammatory condition has been successfully controlled and remains stable.

Topics include scarring alopecia, cicatricial alopecia, lichen planopilaris, LPP, frontal fibrosing alopecia, FFA, central centrifugal cicatricial alopecia, CCCA, dissecting cellulitis, discoid lupus erythematosus, DLE, permanent hair loss, scalp inflammation, scalp biopsy, follicular damage, scarring hair loss treatments, corticosteroid injections, medications for hair loss, and treatments for Scarring Alopecia.

An informative discussion for anyone experiencing unexplained or progressive hair loss, persistent scalp symptoms, or a suspected inflammatory or scarring hair loss disorder.

Let’s Talk About It With Kelly is presented by Freedom Clinic Toronto, specializing in trichology, hair loss, scalp disorders and evidence-based hair restoration solutions.