Epidemiology of Pediatric Alopecia Areata

This contemporary scoping narrative review examines the epidemiology of pediatric alopecia areata (AA), focusing on incidence, prevalence, racial and ethnic differences, and comorbidities. Articles containing original epidemiology on pediatric AA published between 2013 and 2024 were identified. From these studies, the estimated US child and adolescent incidence of AA is between 13.6 and 33.5 per 100,000 person-years, and the prevalence of AA is between 0.04% and 0.11%. Incidence and prevalence rates vary widely by geographic region and nation. A general pattern of highest estimated lifetime prevalence in North African and Middle Eastern nations, followed by high-income North American countries, then by Asian and Western European nations, and, lastly, by Latin America and sub-Saharan Africa emerged. Though infrequently reported, racial and ethnic differences were noted in the largest pediatric-specific studies: Hispanic/Latino, Black, and Asian children were affected by AA at higher rates compared to those who self-identify as White/Caucasian. AA carried a high burden of comorbidities, including atopic disease, vitiligo, mental illness, and thyroid conditions. The existing pediatric epidemiology can help identify potential disparities in care and guide additional research, advocacy, and policy.