Frontal fibrosing alopecia: cutaneous associations in women with skin of color

Cutis. 2018 Nov;102(5):335-338.

Abstract

Frontal fibrosing alopecia (FFA) was first described as a progressive recession of the frontal hairline in postmenopausal women. Since its initial description, recognition and understanding of FFA has expanded. The condition is now defined as a patterned, symmetric, frontotemporal scarring alopecia that is considered to be histopathologically indistinguishable from lichen planopilaris. Numerous case reports and series have suggested clinical variants of and associations with FFA. In addition to reviewing the literature on FFA's associations, this article includes a case series of 5 women with skin of color (Hispanic and black) who presented with various cutaneous findings in association with FFA, including lichen planus pigmentosus (LPP), facial papules, and eyebrow loss. Recognition of the conditions that can occur in association with FFA in individuals with skin of color is important in further expanding our knowledge and understanding of FFA as a disease entity.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Alopecia / diagnosis*
  • Diagnosis, Differential
  • Eyebrows
  • Female
  • Forehead
  • Humans
  • Middle Aged
  • Skin Pigmentation*