Alopecia

The two most common causes of scarring alopecia are lichenplanopilaris (lichen planus affecting the scalp hair follicles) and discoid lupus erythematosus. Both conditions cause inflammation, and can be difficult to differentiate clinically.

Androgenetic alopecia and Alopecia areata are both non-scarring causes of alopecia.

Traction alopecia can cause scarring but is not usually associated with inflammation. Alopecia occurs at sites of traction and is usually caused by hair styling practices, such as braiding.