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Signs & Symptoms of Hair Loss in Children

The American Hair Loss Association (AHLA) states that hair loss in children (pediatric alopecia) accounts for three percent of all visits to pediatricians' offices nationally. Signs and symptoms are most often alarmingly sudden.

  1. Normal Hair Loss

    • Human hair grows an average of six inches per year. Typically, 100 to 120 strands of hair are shed over the course of one day, and are constantly replaced by new growth.

    Infection

    • The fungal infection tinea capitis (ringworm of the scalp) is the most common cause of sudden hair loss in children. Symptoms include bald patches where the hair shaft has broken off at the scalp, black specks, and itching. It is treated with antifungal medications.

    Disease

    • Alopecia areata, an autoimmune disease, causes sudden hair loss---often overnight---resulting in smooth bald patches on a child's head. Alopecia totalis causes sudden and complete baldness. Dermatologists can prescribe medications to suppress the immune system and stimulate hair growth; these will not, however, prevent future bald spots.

    Chemotherapy

    • Many chemotherapy medications cause hair loss, some within a few weeks of the first course of treatment. Hair can appear on a child's pillow, or come out when brushing her hair.

    Emotional Impact

    • The American Academy of Dermatology states that, "the emotional aspects of living with hair loss can be challenging." Parents should provide reassurance to their child suffering from hair loss.

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