Break dancing: a new risk factor for scarring hair loss
May 2011
BACKGROUND
We report on a first case of lichen planopilaris (LPP) mimicking
androgenetic alopecia (AGA) in an individual who has been
break-dancing on his head for many years.
LPP is an autoimmune inflammatory scalp condition
that when left untreated can result in scarring and irreversible
hair loss.
The etiology of LPP is unknown. Different treatment modalities are
used for LPP and AGA.
OBJECTIVE
To increase the awareness of physicians to the possibility of
scarring hair loss (LPP) presenting like AGA.
RESULTS
Scalp examination showed scarring patches of hair loss. A scalp
biopsy confirmed the diagnosis of LPP.
CONCLUSION
Chronic scalp trauma due to break dancing may be a trigger for LPP.
A meticulous scalp examination should be performed before making a
diagnosis of nonscarring conditions of hair loss such as AGA. Early
recognition of LPP and appropriate treatment are important before
scarring and irreversible hair loss ensue.
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