Discoid Lupus Erythematosus of the Scalp in a Patient with Systemic Lupus Erythematosus: A Case Report with Complete Hair Regrowth

Abstract

Scalp involvement with hair loss is common in systemic lupus erythematosus. Discoid lupus erythematosus may cause scarring alopecia, characterized by well-delimited erythematous plaques with scales, follicular hyperkeratosis and atrophy, which is considered a trichological emergency. Early diagnosis and treatment are necessary in order to prevent permanent hair loss. We describe a 44 years’ old female patient with systemic lupus erythematosus for 4 years, with multiple areas of occipitoparietal alopecia, erythematous plaques, atrophy, scales and some bloody crusts. Trichoscopy, histopathology and direct immunofluorescence led to the diagnosis of discoid lupus erythematosus. After 9 months treatment with thalidomide there was complete hair regrowth.

Keywords

• Alopecia
• Lupus Erythematosus, Discoid/complications
• Lupus Erythematosus, Systemic/complications
• Scalp Dermatoses/diagnosis
• Scalp Dermatoses/drug therapy
• Thalidomide