Hypertrichosis
Hypertrichosis
Hypertrichosis (pronunciation: /ˌhaɪpərtrɪˈkoʊsɪs/) is a medical condition characterized by excessive hair growth anywhere on a person's body. It can be generalized, affecting all areas of the body, or localized, affecting only certain areas.
Etymology
The term "Hypertrichosis" is derived from the Greek words "hyper" (meaning "over" or "excessive") and "trichosis" (meaning "hair condition").
Types of Hypertrichosis
There are two types of hypertrichosis: congenital and acquired.
- Congenital Hypertrichosis is present at birth and is usually caused by genetic mutations. It is extremely rare, with fewer than 50 cases documented worldwide.
- Acquired Hypertrichosis occurs after birth and can be caused by a variety of factors, including certain medications, malnutrition, and endocrine disorders.
Symptoms
The primary symptom of hypertrichosis is the excessive growth of hair. The hair can be any color, from very light to very dark, and it can grow anywhere on the body. In some cases, the hair growth can be so extensive that it covers the entire body, including the face.
Treatment
Treatment for hypertrichosis is primarily cosmetic and can include shaving, waxing, or laser hair removal. In some cases, treating the underlying cause of the hypertrichosis, such as an endocrine disorder, can help to reduce the hair growth.
Related Terms
- Hirsutism is a condition that causes excessive hair growth in women in areas where men typically grow hair, such as the face and chest. It is often caused by an excess of male hormones.
- Alopecia is a condition that causes hair loss. It can affect just the scalp or the entire body.
- Trichotillomania is a mental disorder that involves recurrent, irresistible urges to pull out hair from your scalp, eyebrows or other areas of your body, despite trying to stop.
See Also
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Hypertrichosis
- Wikipedia's article - Hypertrichosis
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