Frontal fibrosing alopecia is a condition that causes hair loss in a band-like formation on the front and sides of the head, affecting post-menopausal women. Its cause is unknown, and there is no known cure, but medications may slow its progression. Psychological support may be recommended due to body image issues.
Frontal fibrosing alopecia, or frontotemporal hairline recession, is a clinical condition most commonly experienced by, but not limited to, post-menopausal women. It causes progressive and complete loss of hair from the front and sides of the head in a band-like formation. Its cause is unknown and there are no known treatments, although some medications are available that may slow or stop its course. The condition is commonly confused with other forms of alopecia and can be found in combination with them. For the diagnosis should be sought the advice of a specialist.
Hair loss, or alopecia, of any type in women can be very bothersome and requires early diagnosis and management. Many causes of female hair loss can be treated successfully. Frontal fibrosing alopecia can be particularly debilitating as it causes complete hair loss in the area, not just thinning, and exposed skin may appear pale or lined. It usually affects the front of the hairline and the sides of the head but, in some cases, eyebrows, eyelashes and body hair may also be lost.
While it’s not yet known what causes frontal fibrosing alopecia, doctors suspect it may be related in some way to the immune system, which appears to attack the hair follicles causing inflammation and then permanent damage. The scalp around the follicles may be red and inflamed during this process. Once the hair is gone, it is usually pale or scarred.
The condition can be slow or rapid, and there is no treatment available to cure it. Various medications, including oral and topical steroids, topical calcineurin inhibitors such as tacrolimus and pimecrolimus, immunosuppressive drugs such as cyclosporine and mycophenolate mofetil, and oral antimalarials such as hydroxychloroquine have been used to slow the progression of frontal fibrosing alopecia.
These drugs are not without possible adverse effects, especially when used long-term, which is often necessary with frontal fibrosing alopecia, so the treating physician will treat patient by patient carefully, based on symptoms, severity, and progression. of the disease. The prescribed treatment may interact with other medications, so these should be disclosed to the prescriber. This includes over the counter, homeopathic and complementary medicines.
Destroyed hair follicles do not regenerate, so once the damage has been done, regrowth will not occur. A wig or toupee, or the use of headbands and clever styling may be recommended. Psychological support, including support groups, is often recommended as the condition can cause body image issues.
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