Lichen planus follicles

Lichen planus follicles

Lichen planus pilaris (LPP) is a chronic inflammatory skin disease that affects hair follicles, leading to permanent damage and, as a result, scarring and hair loss. This disease is one form of lichen planus, an autoimmune disorder in which the immune system attacks healthy skin and hair cells. LPP most often affects the scalp, leading to cicatricial alopecia, but it can also manifest itself on other parts of the body.

Lichen planus pilaris is characterized by a variety of symptoms that can develop gradually. The most common symptoms include:

1. Itching of the skin – one of the first symptoms is intense itching around the hair follicles.
2. Pain and burning of the skin – especially in areas where hair loss occurs.
3. Reddish, inflamed papules around the hair follicles – at first, they may appear as small papules that gradually turn into scarring lesions.
4. Cicatricial alopecia – in places where inflammation occurs, hair falls out and does not grow back, and the skin becomes smooth and shiny.
5. Thickening of the skin – as a result of scarring, the skin may become thickened in the affected areas.
6. Nail changes – less commonly, the disease can lead to nail deformities (m.in. splitting, furrows).

The exact causes of LPP are not fully understood, but it is known to be an autoimmune disease. In its course, the immune system attacks the hair follicles, which leads to their destruction.

Causes of lichen planus pilaris:

1. Genetic factors – the tendency to lichen planus can be hereditary.
2. Immune system disorders – in people with LPP, the immune system reacts abnormally, attacking healthy hair follicles.
3. Viral infections – some studies suggest that infections such as hepatitis C may be associated with the appearance of lichen planus.
4. Stress – chronic stress can weaken the immune system and promote the development of autoimmune diseases.
5. Environmental factors – exposure to toxins, certain drugs (e.g. antihypertensive, antimalarial) can cause symptoms of lichen planus.

Treatment of antipsychotics is aimed at stopping the progression of the disease, alleviating symptoms and reducing scarring. Early diagnosis and intervention are key to preventing permanent hair loss.

Treatment of lichen planus pilaris:

1. Anti-inflammatory drugs – including glucocorticoids applied topically (in the form of ointments, gels) or orally to reduce inflammation and stop the progression of the disease.
2. Immunosuppressive drugs – such as cyclosporine or methotrexate, which suppress the excessive activity of the immune system.
3. Antimalarials – in some cases, hydroxychloroquine is used, which can help reduce inflammation.
4. Calcineurin inhibitors – such as tacrolimus and pimecrolimus, which inhibit immune reactions within the skin.
5. Photodynamic therapy – the use of UV radiation (phototherapy) can reduce the symptoms of the disease.
6. Topical agents – moisturizing and soothing preparations are used to relieve itching and prevent secondary infections.
7. Regenerative therapies – in some cases, when hair loss has occurred, hair transplant methods may be used, but only when the inflammation is under control.

Treatment of lichen planus pilaris requires an individual approach, and in the case of advanced lesions, immunosuppressive therapies. Regular monitoring of the patient’s condition and close cooperation with the dermatologist are essential to minimize the effects of this chronic disease.