Hair Loss in Pediatric and Adolescent Age Group: A Clinico-Pathological Analysis in a Tertiary Health Care Center

The study conducted over 10 years at a tertiary health care center analyzed 35 cases of pediatric alopecia, categorizing them into non-scarring (63%), scarring (17%), and miscellaneous causes (20%). Alopecia areata was identified as the most common cause of hair loss in children, followed by trichotillomania. Histopathological features of non-scarring and scarring alopecia in children were similar to those in adults. Rare genetic causes, such as Vitamin D resistant rickets and epidermolysis bullosa, were noted among the miscellaneous causes. The study concluded that a comprehensive approach, including history, clinical examination, and histopathology, was essential for accurate diagnosis of pediatric alopecia.