About Frontal fibrosing alopecia

What is Frontal fibrosing alopecia?

Frontal fibrosing alopecia (FFA) is a type of scarring alopecia, a condition that causes permanent hair loss. It is characterized by a receding hairline, usually at the temples, and thinning of the hair on the top of the head. In some cases, the hair loss may extend to the sides and back of the head. FFA is most common in postmenopausal women, but it can affect anyone.

What are the symptoms of Frontal fibrosing alopecia?

The main symptom of frontal fibrosing alopecia is a receding hairline, usually starting at the temples. Other symptoms may include:

-Thinning of the hair on the top of the head

-Hair loss along the sides of the forehead

-Itching or Burning sensation on the scalp

-Scaling or crusting of the scalp

-Redness or Inflammation of the scalp

-Patches of baldness on the scalp

-Eyebrow thinning or loss

What are the causes of Frontal fibrosing alopecia?

The exact cause of frontal fibrosing alopecia is unknown. However, it is believed to be an autoimmune disorder, meaning that the body’s immune system mistakenly attacks its own healthy cells and tissues. Other possible causes include genetic predisposition, hormonal changes, and environmental factors.

What are the treatments for Frontal fibrosing alopecia?

1. Topical medications: These include corticosteroids, minoxidil, and calcineurin inhibitors.

2. Oral medications: These include anti-inflammatory drugs, such as prednisone, and immunosuppressants, such as cyclosporine.

3. Light therapy: This involves exposing the scalp to ultraviolet light to reduce inflammation.

4. Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) therapy: This involves injecting a concentrated solution of platelets into the scalp to stimulate hair growth.

5. Hair transplantation: This involves surgically transplanting hair follicles from one area of the scalp to another.

6. Wigs and hairpieces: These can be used to cover up areas of hair loss.

What are the risk factors for Frontal fibrosing alopecia?

The exact cause of frontal fibrosing alopecia is unknown, but certain risk factors may increase the likelihood of developing the condition. These risk factors include:

• Age: Frontal fibrosing alopecia is most common in postmenopausal women, although it can occur in men and women of any age.

• Ethnicity: Frontal fibrosing alopecia is more common in people of Caucasian descent.

• Family history: People with a family history of frontal fibrosing alopecia may be more likely to develop the condition.

• Hormonal changes: Changes in hormone levels, such as those that occur during menopause, may increase the risk of frontal fibrosing alopecia.

• Autoimmune disorders: People with autoimmune disorders, such as lupus

Is there a cure/medications for Frontal fibrosing alopecia?

There is no known cure for frontal fibrosing alopecia. However, there are medications that may help slow the progression of the condition. These include topical corticosteroids, topical minoxidil, and oral anti-inflammatory medications such as hydroxychloroquine. In some cases, a combination of these medications may be used.