Ultraviolet-induced fluorescence dermoscopy aids in distinguishing scarring and nonscarring alopecia

Scarring and nonscarring alopecia are the 2 primary types of hair loss, having different therapeutic strategies and prognostic outcomes. In scarring alopecia, hair follicles and sebaceous glands show irreversible destruction with loss of follicular openings, while in nonscarring alopecia, hair follicles are preserved.1 Assessing the reduction or absence of follicles is crucial for accurate diagnosis of hair loss conditions. Dermoscopy signs such as perifollicular erythema and scales can be easily seen with naked-eyes or ordinary dermoscopy (polarized and dry dermoscopy); however, recognizing follicular openings is often challenging, especially in bald areas.
Source: Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology - Category: Dermatology Authors: Tags: JAAD Online Source Type: research