Break Dancing: A New Risk Factor for Scarring Hair Loss

Abstract

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.