The Scalp Involvements in the Connective Tissue Diseases

Background: The involvements of the scalp over the connective tissue diseases (lupus, sclerodermia and dermatomyositis) are often the present complaint due to the disfigurement they cause. The aim of our study was to identify the various involvements of the scalp over the connective tissue diseases. Method: We conducted a descriptive study over a period of seven months of every instance of involvement of the scalp and hair during connective tissue diseases received in the department. A tensile test, a Trichogram and mycological sampling were performed. Results: 25/35 involvements of the scalp were noted (71.42%); all of them were female and the mean age was 32 years. It was a lupus in 17 cases, sclerodermia in 6 cases, dermatomyositis and a sclerodermatomyositis. They were the present complaint in 48% of cases within 3 years and preceding the other lesions in 32% of cases. We noted fragile and dry hair in 10 cases, straightened hair in 8 cases and hypochromic spots fleck in 5 cases. Conclusion: Connective tissue diseases cause severe injuries and often reveal a risk of permanent cicaticial alopecia and fungal superinfection. The cicatricial alopecia and straightened hair are secondary to immune disorders.