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Today, 24 November 2009

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Question

My 11 year old son has a bald patch which on the top of his head which is spreading. He has been seen by a GP and a dermatologist who has taken fungal scrapings, which were negative.

Should I put him on anti-fungal tablets anyway? I have tried all the antifungal shampoos to no avail. I am thinking of trying Regaine®. Is this reasonable? What should I do?

Answer

Regaine® is not licenced for anyone under the age of 18 years, so don't try this. You should not put him on antifungal medication when there is no sign of fungal infection either, since these pills are not without their side effects.

I suggest that you ask for a second opinion from another dermatologist, and failing that, ask to see a specialist in internal medicine in case there is any other problem causing this.

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