Expert: Peter J. Panagotacos, <B>M.D.</B> - 10/6/2006

Question
I found out that I havd lupus in 1979 and now most of my hair has come out with scarring. These patches will not grow back. Will I lose what hair I have left. I do wear wigs off and on
Is there anything that can be done at all. I have been on steroids and also creams and nothing has help. If you have any light on this please let me know.
Thank You.
Teri Reynolds

Answer
In the scarred area you will not be able to grow hair. In areas which are red due to active lupus there may be regrowth of hair if the spot is treated early enough. There is no treatment except for hair transplantation and that would mean taking hair from where you do not have scars and putting the hairs into the scars to make them look acceptable. It will never make them as thick a normal and will leave the other areas thinner. Most importantly it could cause the lupus to flare up and cause even more scarring.