Scarring Alopecia in Pediatric Patients: A Narrative Review of Etiologies, Diagnosis, and Management Strategies

This narrative review explores scarring alopecia in pediatric patients, a condition characterized by irreversible hair loss due to follicular destruction and fibrosis. Although rare in children, it significantly affects their physical appearance and psychosocial development. The review identifies various causes, including genetic conditions, infections, inflammatory disorders, and mechanical factors. It highlights that children often present with acute inflammation and distinct lesions, differing from adult cases. Management strategies are tailored to the individual and may involve topical treatments, systemic immunosuppressives, behavioral interventions, or surgery. The review emphasizes the importance of early diagnosis and the need for further research into pediatric-specific diagnostic criteria and treatments to prevent permanent hair loss and support children's self-esteem.