Hair casts
Hair Casts
Hair casts or peripilar keratin casts (pronunciation: /hɛər kæsts/ or /ˌpɛrɪˈpɪlər ˈkɛrətɪn kæsts/) are tiny, elongated, cylindrical concretions that encircle the hair shaft and can be easily dislodged. They are often mistaken for nits or dandruff, but are a distinct condition.
Etymology
The term "hair cast" is derived from the English words "hair", referring to the thin strands that grow from the skin of humans, and "cast", meaning to throw or to mold into a specific shape. "Peripilar" and "keratin" are derived from the Greek words "peri" (around), "pilar" (hair), and "keratin" (a type of protein found in hair).
Causes
Hair casts are usually associated with conditions that cause increased turnover of the epidermis or outer layer of the skin, such as psoriasis and seborrheic dermatitis. They can also be caused by mechanical or chemical trauma to the hair shaft.
Diagnosis
Diagnosis of hair casts is typically made by visual examination, often with the aid of a dermatoscope. The casts are white to yellow in color, cylindrical, and can be easily moved along the hair shaft.
Treatment
Treatment of hair casts depends on the underlying cause. If the casts are due to a scalp condition such as psoriasis or seborrheic dermatitis, treatment of the underlying condition is necessary. This may involve the use of topical corticosteroids, antifungal medications, or keratolytic agents. If the casts are due to trauma to the hair shaft, avoiding the source of trauma may resolve the condition.
Related Terms
- Nits: The eggs of head lice, often mistaken for hair casts.
- Dandruff: A common condition that causes the skin on the scalp to flake, often mistaken for hair casts.
- Psoriasis: A skin disease that causes red, itchy scaly patches, and can lead to the formation of hair casts.
- Seborrheic dermatitis: A skin condition that causes flaky, itchy, red skin, and can lead to the formation of hair casts.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Hair casts
- Wikipedia's article - Hair casts
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