Health Conditions That Affect Hair Growth In Children

Hair growth issues in children account for 3 percent of all pediatric office visits in the United States, according to the American Hair Loss Association. Abnormal hair growth is a concern for both parents and self-conscious kids and can be a result of many factors including genetic predisposition and dietary intake. However, there are also health conditions that affect hair growth, ranging from fungal infections to immune system disorders.

Tinea Capitis

Tinea capitis is the most common cause of hair loss in children. Also known as ringworm, it is a fungal infection that causes hair to break off in patches, close to the scalp. The condition usually occurs in children between the ages of 3 and 7, and is more common in boys. Those with recent skin or scalp injuries, or that sweating profusely or have poor hygiene are particularly susceptible. Tinea capitas can be transmitted through contact with infected children or by using their personal effects. Oral and topical antifungals are normally prescribed as treatment.

Alopecia Areata

Alopecia areata occurs when a child’s immune system attacks the hair follicles, resulting in patches of hair loss, which can occur overnight or over the course of a few days. Sometimes the condition also affects the eyebrows and limbs, and may be accompanied by an itching or burning sensation. According to the American Hair Loss Center, one in 1,000 kids experiences this condition at any given time, but if properly treated, most will regrow all of their hair within a year.

Telogen Effluvium

There are many causes of telogen effluvium, including physical injuries, severe emotional stress, abnormally high fever or surgery. From one half up to three quarters of the child’s hair may fall out as a result of this condition. However, once the traumatic experience is over, hair normally resumes growth within the year.

Trichotillomania

An obsessive-compulsive disorder, trichotillomania causes children to tug at and pull out their hair. The condition normally develops in preteen years; however, children under 5 also pull out their hair -- but usually outgrow this practice. Trichotillomania is often a way to deal with tension, stress, frustration or other negative emotions, and children with this disorder often bite their nails, pick their skin, and may also suffer from eating disorders or other obsessive-compulsive behavior.

Cancer Treatments

Children undergoing cancer treatments also experience hair growth issues, which usually start a few weeks after the first or second treatment. Cancer does not affect hair growth, but the cancer treatments do. The radiation and chemotherapy that successfully destroys dangerous cancer cells also kills the healthy cells responsible for hair growth. Hair may not grow back in an area exposed to radiation, but in cases of chemotherapy, it usually begins to develop within a few months after the last treatment.