Article PDF first page preview

First page of Scarring Alopecia and Risk of Skin Cancer: A Literature Review

Background: Primary scarring alopecia is characterized by irreversible hair follicle destruction and chronic inflammation, which may create a microenvironment conducive to skin cancer development. Non-melanoma skin cancers (NMSCs), such as squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) and basal cell carcinoma (BCC), are influenced by factors like UV exposure and prolonged inflammation. The link between primary scarring alopecia and increased scalp skin cancer risk remains unclear. Summary: This review analyzed thirteen studies reporting NMSC in primary scarring alopecia subtypes, including lichen planopilaris (LPP), discoid lupus erythematosus (DLE), folliculitis decalvans (FD), and erosive pustular dermatosis of the scalp (EPDS). Chronic inflammation, UV exposure, and immunosuppressive therapies were identified as potential contributors to malignancy. Key Messages: Primary scarring alopecia may increase susceptibility to SCC and BCC, particularly in areas of prolonged inflammation or immunosuppression. Clinicians should emphasize sun protection, routine follow-up, and patient education to minimize risk and improve outcomes. Further research is needed to clarify these associations.

Journal Section:
Review Article
This content is only available via PDF.
S. Karger AG, Basel
Copyright / Drug Dosage / Disclaimer
Copyright: All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be translated into other languages, reproduced or utilized in any form or by any means, electronic or mechanical, including photocopying, recording, microcopying, or by any information storage and retrieval system, without permission in writing from the publisher.
Drug Dosage: The authors and the publisher have exerted every effort to ensure that drug selection and dosage set forth in this text are in accord with current recommendations and practice at the time of publication. However, in view of ongoing research, changes in government regulations, and the constant flow of information relating to drug therapy and drug reactions, the reader is urged to check the package insert for each drug for any changes in indications and dosage and for added warnings and precautions. This is particularly important when the recommended agent is a new and/or infrequently employed drug.
Disclaimer: The statements, opinions and data contained in this publication are solely those of the individual authors and contributors and not of the publishers and the editor(s). The appearance of advertisements or/and product references in the publication is not a warranty, endorsement, or approval of the products or services advertised or of their effectiveness, quality or safety. The publisher and the editor(s) disclaim responsibility for any injury to persons or property resulting from any ideas, methods, instructions or products referred to in the content or advertisements.
2025