Hair shaft disorders: a rare case series

Abstract

<p class="abstract">The hair shaft is composed of multiple layers, which include the medulla, cortex and cuticle. Genetic disorders, diseases or environmental factors can lead to changes in the properties of these structures, resulting in fragility or alterations in hair shaft texture, appearance or manageability giving rise to various hair shaft disorders. Depending on the fragility of the hair the hair shaft disorders are divided into those with increased fragility and those without increased fragility. A clear detailed history and accompanying microscopic, trichoscopic evaluation help in establishing a diagnosis. In this case series we presented a series of seven hair disorders which included pili torti, trichorehexis nodosa, monelithrix, plica palonica, white piedra, trichoptilosis and Tay’s syndrome. Most of the hair shaft disorders have underlying metabolic disorders or genetic disorders that are left unnoticed and are commonly treated as alopecias which do not improve on treatment. Thereby creating a need of diagnosing these conditions appropriately. The treatment of hair shaft disorders depends on treating the underlying cause. In addition patients must be advised to reduce the traumatic effects on the hair like ironing, chemical treatments, curling.</p>