Can you develop bald spots from vacuum extraction?

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I met a 3 year old today that looked like he had bad alopecia or scar tissue on his head and had a big bald patch. I was told it was from his vacuum extraction at birth! :eek:I've never heard of such a thing! I've seen big ole' hematomas in neonates. BUt could that make you bald? Is this possible? Have you seen this?

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Specializes in Maternal - Child Health.

I suppose it could happen if the vacuum caused severe damage such as tearing of the scalp. Scary. I've never liked those things.

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Culture for the particular area of skin/scalp may give clues?

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A child can develop a bald spot if there is an underlying disease process, like infection or autoimmune disorder. Autoimmune disorders like neonatal lupus can leave the roots so brittle that permanent alopecia can occur.

LucyGoosey is right a culture should be done but also a skin punch biopsy.

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