ALOPECIA OF THE UNBURNED SCALP

Alopecia of the unburned scalp, the temporary or permanent loss of hai r, is a preventable complication. Patients at highest risk of developi ng alopecia are those with barn encephalopathy and in a prolonged shoc k state. The occipital scalp is the most common site and localized pre ssure-induced ischaemia is the likely cause. Frequent head repositioni ng and we of devices to decrease the pressure effect may decrease the incidence of this complication.