Asymptomatic Hair Loss in a Patient With Systemic Lupus Erythematosus

Abstract

A 51-year-old woman residing in the Hainan Province, China, was referred to our hospital for treatment of recurrent joint pain that could not be controlled at the local hospital. She had a history of systemic lupus erythematosus with a Systemic Lupus Erythematosus Disease Activity Index score of 8 (mild activity). Physical examination revealed irregular patches of hair loss on the head. There also were remnants of hair in some areas with black dots at the follicular opening and perifollicular keratotic papules interspersed as well as a few pale erythematous spots and white adherent scales. WHAT'S YOUR DIAGNOSIS?a. androgenetic alopecia b. lupus-related alopecia c. seborrheic dermatitis d. telogen effluvium e. tinea capitis