TLDR The document concludes that accurate diagnosis of alopecia in children relies on thorough examination and history, and while treatments exist, none can alter the course of alopecia areata, which can significantly affect a child's psychological well-being.
The 2007 document reviews common causes of alopecia in children, including telogen effluvium, trichotillomania, tinea capitis, and alopecia areata, detailing their symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment options. It emphasizes the importance of history and physical examination in diagnosis and mentions laboratory tests for certain conditions. The document also discusses alopecia areata in depth, noting that while spontaneous recovery can occur, there are no treatments that modify the disease. Factors indicating a poorer prognosis are identified, and various treatments are evaluated, including corticosteroids and contact sensitization therapy, each with their own limitations and side effects. The review underscores the psychological impact of alopecia on children and the importance of providing support and counseling. No specific study sizes are mentioned as it is a general overview.
Cited in this study
8 / 8 results
151 citations
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February 2007 in “International Journal of Dermatology” Alopecia areata causes hair loss, has no cure, and various treatments exist.
9 citations
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September 2006 in “Clinical Pediatrics” Pediatricians should treat some hair loss types in children and refer others to a dermatologist.
65 citations
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January 2005 in “American journal of clinical dermatology” Children with scalp fungal infections need proper diagnosis and treatment, usually with antifungal medications, and newer drugs may offer quicker recovery.
162 citations
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September 2004 in “Journal of Investigative Dermatology” Hair loss causes stress and affects mental health; treatment and support needed.
91 citations
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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.
182 citations
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October 2003 in “British Journal of Dermatology” The 2003 guidelines suggest that while some treatments can regrow hair in alopecia areata, none alter the disease's progression, and wigs may be the best option for extensive hair loss.
234 citations
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December 1996 in “Journal of The American Academy of Dermatology” Middle-aged women with chronic telogen effluvium experience increased hair shedding but usually don't get significantly thinner hair.
12 citations
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October 1996 in “Dermatologic Clinics” A simplified method was introduced to diagnose most hair loss types by examining the patient's history and scalp, with some cases needing further tests.
