Alopecia areata in Infant/Neonate
See also in: External and Internal Eye,Hair and Scalp,Nail and Distal DigitAlerts and Notices
Synopsis

Alopecia areata is seen equally in both sexes and in patients of all ages and ethnicities; however, it is most commonly seen in patients between the ages of 5 and 40. There is an increased incidence of alopecia areata in patients with Down syndrome as well as those with autoimmune diseases, most commonly thyroid disease. In addition, there may be a family history of alopecia areata or autoimmune disease. Patients with alopecia areata are also more likely to have atopy, and its presence is felt to be a poor prognostic indicator.
The course of alopecia areata is unpredictable, with wide variation in duration and extent of disease occurring from patient to patient. In most patients, hair will eventually spontaneously regrow, although recurrences are common. The condition is treatable but cannot be cured.
Codes
ICD10CM:L63.9 – Alopecia areata, unspecified
SNOMEDCT:
68225006 – Alopecia areata
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Diagnostic Pearls
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Differential Diagnosis & Pitfalls
- Trichotillomania, from the twisting and pulling of hair, may mimic alopecia areata. Hairs are broken off at varying lengths.
- Telogen effluvium, usually secondary to recent major illness, surgery, or malnutrition. The loss is diffuse, not localized.
- Tinea capitis, usually associated with scale, active inflammation, lymphadenopathy, and pruritus.
- Loose anagen syndrome may have short, thin hair that can easily be removed from the scalp with gentle pulling, typically seen in young children.
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Therapy
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Drug Reaction Data
Below is a list of drugs with literature evidence indicating an adverse association with this diagnosis. The list is continually updated through ongoing research and new medication approvals. Click on Citations to sort by number of citations or click on Medication to sort the medications alphabetically.Subscription Required
References
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Last Reviewed:06/28/2022
Last Updated:06/30/2022
Last Updated:06/30/2022
Alopecia areata in Infant/Neonate
See also in: External and Internal Eye,Hair and Scalp,Nail and Distal Digit