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Alopecia areata universalis in an infant
J A LaRow1, J Mysliborski, I P Rappaport
1Division of Dermatology, Albany Medical College, Albany, New York 12208, USA.
Journal of Cutaneous Medicine and Surgery
|July 10, 2001
Summary
Alopecia areata (AA) can occur in infants, presenting as generalized hair loss and nail changes. Early diagnosis is crucial for proper genetic counseling and prognosis.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Dermatology
- Trichology
- Genetics
Background:
- Alopecia areata (AA) is a common autoimmune condition affecting hair follicles, typically seen in children.
- Infantile AA is rare, with previously reported cases presenting as localized patches at birth.
Observation:
- This case details alopecia universalis developing postnatally in an infant, accompanied by significant fingernail abnormalities (onychomadesis and onycholysis).
- Scalp biopsy revealed specific follicular findings: rare intermediate/terminal follicles in catagen with minimal lymphocytic infiltration.
Findings:
- The clinicopathologic features supported a diagnosis of alopecia areata.
- Differential diagnosis included Clouston's syndrome (hidrotic ectodermal dysplasia), but genetic testing for this condition was negative.
- Genetic analysis ruled out known Clouston's syndrome gene locus polymorphisms.
Implications:
- Generalized alopecia in infants warrants consideration of alopecia areata in the differential diagnosis.
- Accurate diagnosis is essential for appropriate genetic counseling and establishing a prognosis for affected infants.
- This case expands the understanding of infantile AA presentation and its diagnostic considerations.