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Studies have shown that one possible reason for FFA could be a disturbance in the response of the immune system of the body to the hair follicles. Yet another study has shown the possibility that the hair loss could be caused due to fluctuations in the hormonal system of the body.

Let’s now move to the history and epidemiology of frontal fibrosing alopecia:

While the condition might have existed for several years, as a clinical entity, the condition received recognition only in the early 1990s. As a matter of fact, it was in 1994 that the condition was first described by Dr. Steven Kossards, in great detail. His initial studies described the condition in six women, who were in the later part of their lives. Several studies followed and many cases have been further reported.
If one were to look at this condition histologically, then, the condition is often characterised by a dense infiltration of lymphocytic bodies. These are most prominent around specific regions of the hair follicles, namely the isthmus, the infundibulum and the bulge. There is inflammation that leads to the irreparable destruction of the hair follicles,with loss of the sebaceous glands and what remains are scar tissues due to fibrosis.
Studies showed that most of the women who were affected were in the post menopausal age group or approaching their menopause.There have been rare cases of the condition being reported in women who are below 40 years of age and in men.

Moving onto the pathogenesis of frontal fibrosing alopecia

The histopathology of FFA is similar to lichen planopilaris and the manner in which it presents is also similar. While in most cases, the FFA develops in women who already are presenting characteristics of androgenetic alopecia, it can appear otherwise as well. The onset of this condition can also happen, well past the ages that have already been discussed. Given that both conditions tend to respond to a course of Minoxidil, there is still doubt whether the hormones involved in both conditions are similar. However, there is a general consensus that regional factors might be involved. Environmental factors like certain toxins can also act as a trigger for this condition.

Now that we have looked at the pathogenesis of frontal fibrosing alopecia, let’s move onto the actual pathology and investigations:

The characteristic pattern of alopecia and the age group can help the doctor to clinch the diagnosis. However to confirm the same, and also in rare presentations, a scalp biopsy is advised.
Histopathology is similar to lichen planopilaris characterised by the presence of lymphocytic infiltratearound the isthmus as well as the infundibular regions. There is follicular hyperkeratosis and in the later stages, hair follicles may be replaced by fibrous tracts.

Finally, let’s take a look at the clinical features of frontal fibrosing alopecia:

• There is a band like alopecia, which is most obviously visible in the front part of the scalp. The band can spread and affect even the eyebrows.
• In certain cases, there is a slight itch, but in most cases, there are no such indications.
• The scalp portions that have been affected will seem shiny and pale due to atrophy and scarring of the underlying tissues.
• There could be thinning of the eyebrows due to loss of eyebrow hair. There could be thinning of hair on other parts of the body like as well.

In the next article, we will continue to look at other aspects of frontal fibrosing alopecia, including differential diagnosis and treatments.