Lichen Planopilaris in Children: A Systematic Review

December 2024 in “ Pediatric Dermatology ”

Małgorzata Papierzewska, Anna Waśkiel‐Burnat, Lidia Rudnicka

lichen planopilaris scarring alopecia perifollicular erythema trichoscopic histopathology perifollicular fibrosis lymphocytic inflammation corticosteroids methotrexate pioglitazone tocilizumab LPP scarring hair loss steroids

TLDR Lichen planopilaris can cause patchy hair loss in children and may respond to certain treatments.

This systematic review evaluates the clinical, trichoscopic, and histopathologic features of lichen planopilaris (LPP) in children, a rare cause of scarring alopecia. The review analyzed 12 studies involving 20 children, revealing a male predominance. Common clinical features included scarring, perifollicular erythema, scaling, plugging, atrophy, and follicular hyperkeratotic papules, primarily on the vertex. Trichoscopic findings often showed scaling, blue-gray dots, and perifollicular erythema. Histopathology indicated perifollicular fibrosis and lymphocytic inflammation. Treatment with corticosteroids, methotrexate, pioglitazone, and tocilizumab showed complete or partial response. LPP should be considered in the differential diagnosis of patchy hair loss in children.

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