Principal Investigator:
Chantal Cotter, MD
St. John’s Institute of Dermatology
Overview:
Alopecia areata (AA) is one of the most common hair loss disorders characterized by loss of hair in round patches, usually on the scalp. The exact cause of AA is unknown, but it seems to be caused by the immune system attacking the hair follicles by mistake. Having AA can have impact on a child’s sense of well-being and increase their risk of mental health disorders including depression, anxiety, and OCD. Further, there may an impact on the family’s quality of life. Understanding this burden is paramount to ensuring we understand the full effect AA has on a child. We will do this via an online questionnaire which patients (aged 12-18) and their families can complete at home, anytime, anywhere in the world and in any language. Only through awareness of the full impact of this disease we will be able to advocate for access to treatments but also campaign for recognition and support of mental health in this group.
Status:
This project was funded by a 2022 Pediatric Alopecia Areata Challenge Grant.