Reticulated Hyperpigmentation as a Sign of Lichen Planopilaris

Reticulated hyperpigmentation is a relatively uncommon dermatologic pattern. It is used to describe brown-colored skin lesions that manifest in a lacy or net-like distribution. When a clinician encounters a patient with reticulated hyperpigmentation, its location is often the most helpful feature in establishing a differential diagnosis. As this pattern is rarely observed on the scalp, this site is currently not included in the diagnostic approach.

In this report, we present a case of lichen planopilaris (LPP) in a black man who presented with reticulated hyperpigmentation over the scalp.

We suggest that it may be warranted to add LPP to the differential diagnosis of reticulated hyperpigmentation, especially when arising on the scalp of darker skinned individuals.