TLDR Pediatricians should treat some hair loss types in children and refer others to a dermatologist.
The 2006 document outlines the approach for pediatricians in diagnosing and treating various types of alopecia in children, such as tinea capitis (TC), alopecia areata (AA), traction alopecia, trichotillomania, and telogen effluvium (TE). It advises when to manage cases in the clinic and when to refer to a dermatologist. TC, with a prevalence of 4% to 13% in urban pediatric clinics and schools, can often be treated with griseofulvin by primary care physicians, while AA, affecting over 4.5 million people in the U.S., may resolve spontaneously but can also be treated with corticosteroids or minoxidil. Traction alopecia requires changes in hair styling practices, trichotillomania needs behavioral therapy or medication, and TE, with an unknown prevalence, may just need reassurance if a trigger is identified. The document emphasizes the importance of a thorough history and physical examination, and suggests specific laboratory tests for AA and TE. Scarring alopecias should always be referred to a dermatologist.
54 citations,
January 2005 in “Journal of The American Academy of Dermatology” Most patients with chronic hair shedding did not progress to permanent hair loss, and one showed improvement with treatment.
32 citations,
January 2005 in “Journal of The American Academy of Dermatology” Some babies are born with alopecia areata, and a treatment with clobetasol propionate can regrow hair in half of the cases.
91 citations,
July 2004 in “BMJ. British medical journal” The document concludes that molluscum contagiosum is a common, benign skin infection in children, often healing without scarring.
254 citations,
December 2003 in “Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology” Accurate diagnosis and aggressive treatment are crucial to prevent permanent hair loss in cicatricial alopecia.
66 citations,
July 2003 in “International Journal of Dermatology” Betamethasone valerate foam is more effective and safe for treating mild-to-moderate alopecia areata than betamethasone dipropionate lotion.
50 citations,
March 2000 in “American Journal of Clinical Dermatology” Alopecia Areata has no guaranteed treatment for hair regrowth, but options like corticosteroids and minoxidil are used, with future research focusing on genetic and immune therapies.
14 citations,
April 2014 in “Medical Clinics of North America” The document concludes that quick referral and appropriate treatments are crucial for managing common skin conditions and preventing permanent damage.
