Pseudopelade of Brocq

Alternate names

Pseudo pelade of Brocq; Brocq pseudopelade; Pseudo-pelade of Brocq

Definition

Pseudopelade of Brocq (PBB) is a slowly progressive, chronic condition characterized by scarring hair loss (cicatricial alopecia).

Summary

There exists some controversy as to whether PBB is a distinct condition or the common final stage or variant of several different forms of scarring alopecias, such as discoid lupus erythematosus (DLE) or lichen planopilaris (LPP).

Types

PBB is classified into two categories depending on whether a scarring alopecia is present (burnt-out or end-stage scarring) or not (idiopathic).

Cause

• Although the exact cause of PBB has not been identified, it is believed to be an autoimmune disease.
• Other factors that may be involved include infections with Borrelia burgdorferi, the bacterium that causes Lyme disease and issues with the cells involved in hair growth (stem cell failure).

Signs and symptoms

• The patches of hair loss present in PBB may be single or multiple. T
• hey are usually small, discrete, round or oval, and asymmetrical.
• The underlying skin is typically smooth, soft, and flesh-colored or white, with little, if any, inflammation.

Clinical presentation

For most diseases, symptoms will vary from person to person. People with the same disease may not have all the symptoms listed.

80%-99% of people have these symptoms

• Alopecia(Hair loss)
• Lichenification
• Sparse scalp hair(Reduced/lack of hair on scalp)

30%-79% of people have these symptoms

• Papule
• Recurrent skin infections(Skin infections, recurrent)

5%-29% of people have these symptoms

• Abnormality of the nail
• Aplasia/Hypoplasia of the eyebrow(Absence of eyebrow)
• Cheilitis(Inflammation of the lips)

Treatment

There is no standard treatment for PBB. In the beginning of the disease process, certain medication, such as steroids, may be used in an effort to prevent further hair loss.