Optimal Management of Hair Loss (Alopecia) in Children

January 2003 in “ American Journal of Clinical Dermatology ”

Shannon Harrison, Rodney Sinclair

alopecia hair biology topical corticosteroids anthralin minoxidil topical immunotherapy oral corticosteroids tinea capitis alopecia areata telogen effluvium wigs genetic counseling structural hair shaft abnormalities supportive care Rogaine

TLDR Effective management of children's hair loss involves accurate diagnosis, various treatments, and supportive care.

The document discussed the optimal management of hair loss (alopecia) in children, emphasizing the importance of understanding hair biology and development for accurate assessment. It highlighted the significant psychological and cosmetic impacts of hair loss on children and parents. Various treatment options were reviewed, including topical corticosteroids, anthralin, minoxidil, and topical immunotherapy, with varying degrees of effectiveness. Oral corticosteroids were effective but not recommended for long-term use due to severe side effects. Conditions like tinea capitis responded well to medical therapy, while others like alopecia areata and telogen effluvium had no single effective treatment. Cosmetic solutions like wigs were recommended when no effective treatment existed. The document also covered the importance of accurate diagnosis for genetic counseling and the management of structural hair shaft abnormalities, emphasizing supportive care and minimizing hair damage.

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Research cited in this study

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