Baldness is not exclusive to older men and women. The American Hair Loss Association, created to provide support for and build awareness of the medical causes and emotional effects of hair loss in men, women and children, states that hair loss in children (pediatric alopecia) accounts for 3 percent of all visits to pediatricians' offices nationally. While sudden hair loss in patches or over the entire scalp can be alarming, many cases can be treated effectively, and will return.
Anatomy of the Hair
Our hair is comprised of a follicle, which is below the skin's surface in the dermis; and the shaft, which is above the skin's surface. Growth, which occurs within the follicle, averages 6 inches per year. Typically, 100 to 120 strands of hair are shed daily, constantly replaced by new growth.
Infection
The most common cause of sudden hair loss in children is a fungal infection of the scalp called tinea capitis (ringworm of the scalp). According to MedLineHelp, it is most common in children but can affect adolescents and adults as well. Symptoms include bald patches where the hair shaft has broken off at the scalp, black specks and itching.
Children with minor irritations on their scalp, poor hygiene or prolonged moisture on the scalp are more susceptible to the infection. It's also contagious, transferred by direct contact with someone with the infection or by sharing hats, brushes and combs with an infected child. The infection is treated with oral anti-fungal medications; sometimes topical medications are recommended as well.
Alopecia Areata
Alopecia areata, an autoimmune disease in which the body attacks hair cells, causes a sudden loss of hair---often overnight---resulting in smooth bald patches on a child's head. It can be hereditary. According to the American Academy of Dermatology, 20 percent of those who have alopecia areata have a relative with it. While it can affect anyone at any age, children are most susceptible. The American Hair Loss Association 1 in 1,000 children are affected and that 5 percent of these will develop alopecia totalis, which causes complete baldness as quickly as overnight or over the course of several days to several months.
A doctor diagnoses alopecia areata by examining the scalp and ruling out other causes. There is no known cure---the disease can disappear for months or years and then reappear. Dermatologists may use prescription medications to suppress the immune system and stimulate hair growth; these efforts will not prevent future bald spots from returning, but can help hair growth return to existing bald spots and even the entire head in cases of alopecia totalis.
Chemotherapy
Many chemotherapy medications cause hair loss, some as quickly as within a few weeks of the first course of treatment. Parents are aware of this side effect of the treatment, and thus can help prepare their child for the emotional impact of their imminent hair loss.
Emotional Considerations
The American Academy of Dermatology states that, "the emotional aspects of living with hair loss can be challenging, especially in a society that regards hair as a sign of youth and good health." It goes on to state that most causes of hair loss, including alopecia areata, do not affect a child's overall health and need not interfere with their daily activities or overall happiness.
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