Scalp trauma: a risk factor for lichen planopilaris?

BACKGROUND: Lichen planopilaris is a type of primary scarring alopecia that is characterized by perifollicular lymphocytic inflammation and fibrosis. The cause remains poorly understood, although recent research has begun to unravel some of the molecular mechanisms implicated in the pathogenesis.

OBJECTIVE: To present a case of biopsy-proven lichen planopilaris in a patient who had previously suffered serious head injury. Lichen planopilaris developed only in the areas of trauma.

CONCLUSION: Our findings highlight the possible association between scalp trauma and the development of lichen planopilaris. Further research is needed to understand the role of scalp trauma in the pathogenesis of scarring alopecia.