Hypertrichosis

Editor-In-Chief: Prab R Tumpati, MD
Obesity, Sleep & Internal medicine
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Hypertrichosis
Synonyms	Ambras syndrome, werewolf syndrome
Pronounce
Specialty	Dermatology
Symptoms	Excessive hair growth
Complications	N/A
Onset	Congenital or acquired
Duration	Long-term
Types	N/A
Causes	Genetic mutations, medication side effects, cancer
Risks
Diagnosis	Physical examination, genetic testing
Differential diagnosis	Hirsutism, Polycystic ovary syndrome
Prevention	N/A
Treatment	Hair removal techniques, laser therapy
Medication
Prognosis	N/A
Frequency	Rare
Deaths

Krao, a woman with hypertrichosis

Petrus Gonsalvus, known for his condition of hypertrichosis

Alice, a teenager with hypertrichosis

Hairy Man and His Son, an example of hypertrichosis

Tognina, a woman with hypertrichosis

Hypertrichosis 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. Hypertrichosis can be either congenital, present at birth, or acquired later in life.

Causes

The causes of hypertrichosis are not well understood. It can be associated with other medical conditions, such as Porphyria Cutanea Tarda or malnutrition. Some forms of hypertrichosis are hereditary, passed down in families.

Symptoms

The main symptom of hypertrichosis is excessive hair growth. The hair can be any color, from very light to very dark. In some cases, the hair growth can be so extensive that it covers the entire body.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of hypertrichosis is usually based on the physical appearance of the individual. In some cases, a biopsy of the skin may be performed to confirm the diagnosis.

Treatment

Treatment for hypertrichosis is primarily cosmetic, and can include shaving, waxing, or laser hair removal. In some cases, medication may be prescribed to slow hair growth.

See also

• Hirsutism
• Hyperandrogenism
• Polycystic ovary syndrome

References

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