TLDR Loose anagen syndrome causes easy hair shedding in children, often resolving on its own.
Loose anagen hair syndrome (LAS) was a condition characterized by non-scarring alopecia and increased hair shedding due to poorly anchored anagen hairs, most commonly affecting female children. It was inherited in an autosomal dominant fashion with incomplete penetrance or occurred sporadically. The condition presented with diffuse thinning and unruly hair that was easily and painlessly removed. Diagnosis could be confirmed with a hair pull test and light microscopy showing a deformed anagen bulb, absent inner root sheath, and ruffled cuticle. Histopathologic exams revealed premature and defective keratinization of the inner root sheath. While most cases resolved spontaneously, topical minoxidil was recommended as first-line therapy for infants and children.
40 citations,
July 2017 in “Frontiers in Medicine” Early and personalized treatment for hair loss in young people is crucial to prevent permanent damage and should include psychological support.
21 citations,
May 1996 in “Current problems in dermatology” Detailed patient history and physical exams are crucial for diagnosing hair loss.
122 citations,
April 1995 in “Journal of Cutaneous Pathology” The document describes how to tell different types of non-scarring hair loss apart by looking at hair and scalp tissue under a microscope.
61 citations,
January 2013 in “Indian Journal of Dermatology, Venereology and Leprology” Hair usually grows back 1-3 months after treatment for anagen effluvium, and children with Loose Anagen Hair Syndrome often improve by adolescence.
July 2018 in “Elsevier eBooks” The most common cause of hair loss in children is tinea capitis, followed by alopecia areata and telogen effluvium.
86 citations,
August 2014 in “Journal of The American Academy of Dermatology” To diagnose hair loss, use a systematic approach including history, exams, and tests.
