| Abstract [eng] |
Aim of the study: to analyze the latest scientific literature and assess the risk factors and treatment options for alopecia areata in children, to elaborate practical recommendations for diagnosis and treatment based on the scientific literature. Methods: a literature review was performed. The literature search was carried out between 6 March 2023 and 1 April 2023. PubMed database was searched using the keywords "alopecia areata", "children", "pediatric", "risk factors", "treatment", and combinations thereof. Publications published in English between 2013 and 2023 and their sources were reviewed. Results: Alopecia areata is an autoimmune disorder that causes patchy baldness. The condition occurs in about 2% of the world's population and is most common in the pediatric population. Genetic and environmental factors influence the development of alopecia areata, and there are links with other autoimmune diseases such as vitiligo. Clinically, alopecia areata is characterised by distinct, circular, or oval balding foci on the scalp. On trichoscopy, alopecia areata is particularly characterised by the presence of exclamation mark shaped hairs, as well as broken hairs and yellow follicles. In childhood, it is important to differentiate this condition with tinea capitis and trichotillomania. In the pediatric population, topical glucocorticosteroids and contact immunotherapy are the most prescribed treatments. In more severe cases, systemic glucocorticosteroids or methotrexate are used. Currently, much attention is focused on evaluating the efficacy and safety of janus kinase inhibitors, such as tofacitinib, in the treatment of pediatric alopecia areata. Hair transplantation and other interventions may be used in case of failure of treatment. |
