The role of hydroxychloroquine in the treatment of lichen planopilaris: A retrospective case series and review

A variety of systemic agents are used to treat lichen planopilaris (LPP) with a limited evidence base. The aim of our study was to retrospectively review the response rate to and tolerability of hydroxychloroquine in a cohort of patients with LPP in an effort to add to the evidence base for its use. Twenty-three patients with a clinical and histopathological diagnosis of LPP who had been treated with hydroxychloroquine for their disease in a single center were identified. A retrospective review of these patients' medical records was performed and physician rated response was documented. Complete response was observed in 61% of our patients, and a further 9% of patients demonstrated partial response. Thirteen percent of patients withdrew from treatment because of suspected adverse effects. Our sample size was small, and data was collected retrospectively. We found hydroxychloroquine to be a reasonable therapeutic choice in LPP.