Alopecia areata is a condition which causes hair to fall out in patches or spots on the scalp, sometimes developing into total hair loss on the head (called alopecia totalis) or the whole body (alopecia universalis).
This condition is particularly distressing for sufferers because it happens so suddenly, seemingly unprompted. Unfortunately, alopecia areata can also affect children, leaving many parents worried and unsure what to do.
The good news for parents is that although there is no outright cure for this condition, there is treatment available to control it. What’s more, a large number of child sufferers recover and get their hair back within approximately twelve months. Only a small number go on to develop alopecia totalis; in this case, it is recommended to seek treatment with a specialist.
Symptoms
The symptoms to look out for with alopecia areata in children include:
• The sudden appearance of oval or round bald patches
• Smooth skin where the hair has fallen out, with no scaling or broken hairs
• Occasionally, children with alopecia areata also experience ridging and pitting of the nails
Causes
Alopecia is thought to be an auto-immune disease where the immune system attacks the hair follicles, and it has often been found to run in families. There are other environmental triggers too, such as excessive emotional stress.
Treatment
Doctors may prescribe corticosteroid creams or ointments for children with alopecia, which are applied to the bald patches. Whilst waiting for the hair to eventually grow back, a temporary option is specially made human hair wigs for children.