Will A Scalp Biopsy Help For Frontal Fibrosing Alopecia?'

Lo

Question: Would a scalp biopsy in the thinning area where FFA is suspected, give a certain pattern in the findings? Thanks

An Example of Frontal Fibrosing Alopecia which Causes a Receding Hairline Most Commonly Seen in Women

Hi, Lo. We are unsure as to whether you have spoken to a specialist regarding your hair loss or whether you are enquiring following self-diagnosis. As such, and because you are not a Belgravia client, the following advice is general and we would advise you to speak to your doctor concerning this issue as well as any potential biopsy.

Biopsy is usually a very good diagnostic method if Frontal Fibrosing Alopecia (FFA) is suspected as it gives your specialist plenty of useful information which then helps them to determine the best treatment for you.

FFA is a type of scarring which occurs in a band around the hairline. It is part of a group of conditions known as cicatricial alopecia and cannot be treated in the same way as more common hair loss conditions.

FFA is not something we treat here at Belgravia and is something a doctor should be consulted about as sometimes the condition can be managed using prescription drugs including oral steroids or anti-malarials. In some cases a hair transplant may also be a possibility, though this is decided very much on a case by case basis following assessment by a highly specialised hair restoration surgeon.

It is important to be aware that biopsies, as with any diagnostic tests, can sometimes come back with inconclusive results and may have to be repeated. However, if you suffer from frontal fibrosing alopecia, there are other signs to look for - a biopsy is not the only way to diagnose this condition. Your doctor will examine your scalp and hair shafts too, in order to further inform their final diagnosis.

You can find out more about the condition, the pattern it takes and signs to look for on our dedicated Frontal Fibrosing Alopecia page.