Exploring the frequency and autoimmune associations of lichen planopilaris

Lichen planopilaris (LPP) is a rare inflammatory disorder affecting hair follicles primarily on the scalp. It results in permanent hair loss and scarring, which can significantly impact individuals' mental well-being. This study aims to determine the frequency and autoimmune association of LPP to advance understanding and management strategies.

The study took place from January 1, 2014, to June 1, 2021. Data extraction was facilitated through the Mass General Brigham Enterprise Data Warehouse utilizing the Research Patient Data Registry (RPDR) system. Data extraction included age, gender, race, and autoimmune diseases associated with LPP.

Of the charts screened (24,711), 1549 patients with LPP were identified, resulting in an overall registered prevalence of 0.02581%. Most patients were female (87.1%) and aged over 60 years (33.2%). Analysis of racial distribution revealed a heterogeneous sample, with the highest representation of white patients (80.2%), followed by Black patients (6.7%). Notably, 72 (4.64%) patients were identified with concurrent autoimmune diseases, with most patients having more than one at a time and females comprising the majority (94.4%). Among the observed autoimmune diseases, systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) was the most prevalent, affecting 40 (55.55%) patients. Dermatomyositis was discerned in 6 (8.33%), systemic sclerosis in 4 (5.55%), and Sjogren syndrome in 40 (55.55%) patients.

This study revealed that LPP affects mainly females aged over 60 years (registered prevalence rate of 0.02581%). Many patients also had autoimmune diseases, notably SLE. This highlights the need for further research to improve management strategies.