Sorry..also meant to mention that the alopecia seems to be hereditary(mom also had it as a child and recovered, now she occasionally suffers from it - always improved by steroids). There is a definite emotional component - the boy just moved here and cannot speak the language and feels upset by this as he loves to communicate. When he is around those he can communicate with, he is bright and happy.
Anyway, if anyone has an idea about how long it will take for the hair to regrow, especially considering it has been suppressed with topical steroids, I would be interested in knowing of your experiences!
With thanks,