Primary scalp alopecia: new histopathological tools, new concepts and a practical guide to diagnosis

J Cutan Pathol. 2017 Jan;44(1):53-69. doi: 10.1111/cup.12822. Epub 2016 Oct 28.

Abstract

The diagnosis of primary scalp alopecia remains one of the most challenging fields in dermatopathology. In this review, we would like to connect the established classification of primary alopecia into scarring (cicatricial) and non-scarring (non-cicatricial) with current concepts. We introduce a simplified pathway for the diagnosis of the most common causes of alopecia, including a discussion of tissue processing techniques and use of immunohistochemistry.

Keywords: non-scarring (non-cicatricial ) alopecia; primary scalp alopecia; scarring (cicatricial) alopecia.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Alopecia / classification*
  • Alopecia / diagnosis*
  • Alopecia / pathology*
  • Cicatrix / pathology
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Scalp / pathology*