ants and Tinea-Capitis

Localized scalp hair loss is associated with many processes, including alopecia areata, trichotillomania, tinea capitis, and early lupus erythematosus. There are several reports of localized alopecia after tick- and flea-bites and bee stings, but there are only two reports of ant-induced alopecia in the literature. We present two cases of alopecia induced by ants of genus Pheidole (species pallidula) and review the literature for insect-induced alopecia. Ant-induced alopecia should be considered in the differential diagnosis of localized sudden-onset alopecia, at least in some geographic areas of the world.

Topics: Adult; Alopecia; Alopecia Areata; Animals; Ants; Appetitive Behavior; Bedding and Linens; Diagnosis, Differential; Female; Humans; Iran; Male; Scalp; Tinea Capitis; Trichotillomania