A Clinical Analysis of 304 Cases with Alopecia Areata in Children
January 2015
in “
Journal of Practical Dermatology
”
TLDR Younger children with alopecia areata often experience more severe hair loss and longer illness, with allergies and nutrient deficiencies playing a role.
The study analyzed 304 pediatric patients with alopecia areata at Beijing Children's Hospital from 2010 to 2014, finding a male to female ratio of 1.3:1 and a peak onset age of 3 to 7 years. Severe alopecia areata was present in 61.8% of cases, with younger onset ages linked to more severe hair loss. Spring was the most common season for disease onset. Nail involvement occurred in 26.8% of cases, and 13.82% had allergic diseases. Abnormal trace elements, particularly zinc and iron deficiencies, were found in 64.1% of patients. The study concluded that younger onset age correlated with more severe hair loss and a longer disease course, highlighting the importance of considering allergic factors in pediatric alopecia areata.