Which type of alopecia involves inflammatory disorders that destroy the hair follicle, leading to hair loss that is generally considered permanent?
Answer
Cicatricial alopecia
Cicatricial alopecia is a serious category of scalp disorders defined by an underlying inflammatory process that actively targets and destroys the structure of the hair follicle itself. Once the follicle is destroyed by this inflammation, it is replaced entirely by scar tissue. Because scar tissue is inherently incapable of producing hair shafts, any hair loss resulting from cicatricial alopecia is generally permanent. Specific examples of conditions falling under this classification include lichen planopilaris or discoid lupus erythematosus. Due to this irreversible nature, early diagnosis by a dermatologist is paramount to intervene and halt the destructive inflammatory process before extensive scarring occurs.
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