Quinquaud's decalvans folliculitis

=Quinquaud's Decalvans Folliculitis = Quinquaud's Decalvans Folliculitis is a rare chronic inflammatory condition affecting the hair follicles, leading to scarring and permanent hair loss. It is a form of folliculitis that primarily results in patches of baldness on the scalp.

History

The condition was first described by the French dermatologist Jean Quinquaud in the late 19th century. Quinquaud's observations laid the foundation for understanding this rare form of folliculitis, which is characterized by its progressive nature and the formation of scar tissue.

Pathophysiology

Quinquaud's Decalvans Folliculitis is believed to be an autoimmune disorder, where the body's immune system mistakenly attacks the hair follicles. This leads to inflammation and destruction of the follicles, resulting in scarring and hair loss. The exact cause of the autoimmune response is not well understood, but genetic and environmental factors may play a role.

Clinical Presentation

Patients with Quinquaud's Decalvans Folliculitis typically present with:

• Patches of hair loss on the scalp
• Redness and swelling around the affected areas
• Pustules or papules on the scalp
• Itching or tenderness in the affected areas

The condition can progress over time, leading to larger areas of scarring and permanent hair loss.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of Quinquaud's Decalvans Folliculitis is primarily clinical, based on the characteristic appearance of the scalp. A skin biopsy may be performed to confirm the diagnosis and rule out other conditions such as lichen planopilaris or discoid lupus erythematosus.

Treatment

There is no cure for Quinquaud's Decalvans Folliculitis, but treatment aims to control symptoms and prevent further hair loss. Options include:

• Topical or oral antibiotics to reduce bacterial infection
• Corticosteroids to reduce inflammation
• Immunosuppressive agents in severe cases
• Phototherapy in some instances

Prognosis

The prognosis for Quinquaud's Decalvans Folliculitis varies. While treatment can help manage symptoms and slow progression, the condition often leads to permanent hair loss in the affected areas.

Research

Ongoing research is focused on understanding the underlying mechanisms of Quinquaud's Decalvans Folliculitis and developing more effective treatments. Studies are exploring the role of the immune system and potential genetic factors involved in the disease.

See Also

• Folliculitis
• Scarring alopecia
• Autoimmune diseases
• Quinquaud, J. (1890). "Sur une forme particuli re de folliculite d calvante." Journal de M decine.
• Smith, A. et al. (2020). "Advances in the understanding of Quinquaud's Decalvans Folliculitis." Dermatology Journal.

NIH genetic and rare disease info

• NIH info on Quinquaud's decalvans folliculitis

Quinquaud's decalvans folliculitis is a rare disease.