Scalp dysaesthesia and lichen simplex chronicus: diagnostic and therapeutic update with literature review.

Scalp dysaesthesia, considered a variant of the cutaneous dysaesthesia syndrome, is characterized by chronic sensory symptoms, including pruritus, pain, burning and stinging in a well-defined location, without objective findings. Its aetiology is not well elucidated and treatment options are limited, thus it can be challenging and frustrating for both patient and physician. It can be associated with lichen simplex chronicus. In this paper, we review the literature on the pathogenetic factors, diagnostic methods and therapeutic options in the management of scalp dysaesthesia. Dissociation, cervical spine disease and muscle tension seem to be the most important pathogenetic factors. Trichoscopy, reflectance confocal microscopy and biopsy are all helpful for the diagnosis of the disease. Therapies include high-potency topical or intralesional corticosteroids, capsaicin and topical anaesthetics, sedative antihistamines, tricyclic antidepressants, transcutaneous electric nerve stimulation, botulinum toxin and vitamin B12.

Guidelines for clinical trials of frontal fibrosing alopecia: consensus recommendations from the International FFA Cooperative Group (IFFACG).

BACKGROUND: Frontal fibrosing alopecia (FFA) has become one of the most common causes of cicatricial alopecia worldwide. However, there is a lack of clear aetiology and robust clinical trial evidence for the efficacy and safety of agents currently used for treatment. OBJECTIVES: To enable data to be collected worldwide on FFA using common criteria and assessment methods. METHODS: A multicentre, international group of experts in hair loss was convened by email to create consensus recommendations for clinical trials. Consensus was defined at > 90% agreement on each recommended part of these guidelines. RESULTS: Standardized diagnostic criteria, severity rating, staging, and investigator and patient assessment of scalp hair loss and other clinical features of FFA were created. CONCLUSIONS: These guidelines should allow the collection of reliable aggregate data on FFA and advance efforts in both clinical and basic research to close knowledge gaps in this condition.

An international expert consensus statement focusing on pre and post hair transplantation care.

AIM: To achieve international expert consensus and give recommendations on best practices in hair transplantation surgery, focusing on pre- and post-transplantation care. METHODS: A modified Delphi method was used to reach consensus. An international scientific committee developed an 81-statement questionnaire. A panel of 38 experts in hair transplantation from 17 countries across 4 continents assessed the questionnaire. RESULTS: Two consensus rounds were carried out, with 59 out of 81 statements (73%) reaching consensus. Expert recommendations emphasize the correct selection of candidates for hair transplantation and the need for patients to have received adequate medical treatment for alopecia before transplant. Comorbidities should be assessed and considered while planning surgery, and an individualized plan for perioperative care should be drawn up before transplant. Certain medications associated with increased risk of bleeding should be withdrawn before surgery. Specific recommendations for post-transplantation care are given. After transplantation, patients should gradually resume their normal haircare regimen. Close follow-up should be carried out during the first year after transplant. CONCLUSIONS: This study presents numerous consensus-based recommendations on general aspects of hair transplantation, including candidate selection, medical therapy prior to transplantation, anesthesia, and resuming haircare after transplantation.