Sarcoidal alopecia mimicking discoid lupus erythematosus: Report of a case and review of the literature

Abstract

Sarcoidal alopecia is a subtype of plaque-forming cutaneous sarcoidosis that may resemble discoid lupus erythematosus (DLE). Because the clinical appearance of the two lesions is similar, the correct diagnosis may be missed. The systemic involvement and progressive nature of sarcoidosis, make it important to differentiate sarcoidal alopecia from DLE, so that proper treatment can be initiated and potential long-term sequelae avoided. We present the case of a 57-year-old Taiwanese woman with sarcoidal alopecia of the scalp that mimicked DLE.

Keywords

• sarcoidal alopecia
• discoid lupus erythematosus