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Scalp dysaesthesia, considered a variant of the cutaneous dysaesthesia syndrome, is characterized by chronic sensory symptoms, including pruritus, pain, burning and stinging in a well-defined location, without objective findings. Its aetiology is not well elucidated and treatment options are limited, thus it can be challenging and frustrating for both patient and physician. It can be associated with lichen simplex chronicus. In this paper, we review the literature on the pathogenetic factors, diagnostic methods and therapeutic options in the management of scalp dysaesthesia. Dissociation, cervical spine disease and muscle tension seem to be the most important pathogenetic factors. Trichoscopy, reflectance confocal microscopy and biopsy are all helpful for the diagnosis of the disease. Therapies include high-potency topical or intralesional corticosteroids, capsaicin and topical anaesthetics, sedative antihistamines, tricyclic antidepressants, transcutaneous electric nerve stimulation, botulinum toxin and vitamin B12.

Background Frontal fibrosing alopecia (FFA) has become one of the most common causes of cicatricial alopecia worldwide. However, there is a lack of clear aetiology and robust clinical trial evidence for the efficacy and safety of agents currently used for treatment. Objectives To enable data to be collected worldwide on FFA using common criteria and assessment methods. Methods A multicentre, international group of experts in hair loss was convened by email to create consensus recommendations for clinical trials. Consensus was defined at > 90% agreement on each recommended part of these guidelines. Results Standardized diagnostic criteria, severity rating, staging, and investigator and patient assessment of scalp hair loss and other clinical features of FFA were created. Conclusions These guidelines should allow the collection of reliable aggregate data on FFA and advance efforts in both clinical and basic research to close knowledge gaps in this condition.

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