Question

For children who have 1 patch or a few patches of alopecia areata, the chance of spontaneous regrowth of hair is:

a) High
b) Low
c) Moderate
d) Unpredictable

Answer 1

The chance of hair regrowth for children with alopecia areata is unpredictable due to the variable nature of the immune system's attack on hair follicles. Hair growth follows an anagen, catagen, and telogen cycle, but alopecia areata can disrupt this process. Treatment and prognosis should be discussed with a healthcare provider.

Step-by-step explanation:

For children with alopecia areata, the chance of spontaneous regrowth of hair is unpredictable. Alopecia areata is characterized by the immune system attacking hair follicles, often resulting in sudden and patchy hair loss. Unlike other conditions affecting hair, such as acne that stems from infected sebaceous glands or albinism which is a genetic disorder impacting melanin production, alopecia areata's exact course is difficult to foresee.

Hair growth typically follows three phases: the anagen, which is the active growth phase, the catagen, a transition phase, and the telogen, a resting phase. During the anagen phase, hair grows at the rate of 0.3 mm per day. Factors that could influence hair regrowth include the extent of hair loss, the presence of other medical conditions, and individual responses to treatment. It's crucial to consult with a healthcare provider for appropriate management and prognosis.