Excess Hair Growth (Hypertrichosis)
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What is Hypertrichosis?
Hypertrichosis is defined as an abnormal increase in hair growth in any area of the body in males or females. Both men and women are often equally affected by this condition. It is important to distinguish between hypertrichosis and hirsutism, as the term hirsutism is used to refer to women who have increased hair in areas sensitive to the androgen hormone, such as the face, chest, and back. Hypertrichosis may appear all over the body or in specific areas, and it may be due to congenital (since birth) causes or acquired causes (occurring later in life).
What are the Symptoms of Hypertrichosis?
The signs and symptoms of hypertrichosis vary according to the cause. The type of body hair can differ according to the different forms of overgrowth; the hair may appear as short, fine hair and may be pigmented or non-pigmented. Congenital hypertrichosis can be permanent, and these cases may sometimes also be accompanied by gum enlargement.
What are the Causes of Hypertrichosis?
The causes of hypertrichosis are multiple and can be classified into two types: congenital and acquired.
Congenital hypertrichosis:
This type is present from birth and is often the result of genetic mutations. Its causes may include:
Genetic mutations: Some rare hereditary conditions cause excessive hair growth from childhood.
Hereditary conditions: certain genetic syndromes, such as Ambras syndrome, lead to generalized hair growth on the body.
Acquired hypertrichosis:
This type develops later in life and may be due to multiple factors, including:
Medications: some medications, such as minoxidil (for treating hair loss), cyclosporine (as an immunosuppressant), and some steroids, can cause hair growth as a side effect.
Systemic diseases: some types of cancer (such as lung cancer or ovarian cancer) and metabolic disorders may lead to hypertrichosis as a secondary effect.
Malnutrition and eating disorders: conditions such as anorexia nervosa are associated with the growth of fine-type hair due to low body fat and hormonal changes.
Porphyria cutanea tarda: This is a rare skin disorder that can cause excess hair growth on the face and other areas of the body.
How is Hypertrichosis Diagnosed?
The doctor takes the medical history and performs a clinical examination, and may request additional procedures as needed, such as:
Evaluating the extent, pattern, and duration of excess hair growth, as well as any underlying medical conditions or medications used.
Blood tests to check hormone levels, thyroid function, and other relevant blood markers to assess underlying hormonal imbalances or metabolic disorders.
In some cases, imaging such as ultrasound or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is performed to assess underlying tumors or structural abnormalities.
What are the Treatment Options for Hypertrichosis?
Hypertrichosis is treated by hair removal, and several procedures are available as needed, including:
Depilatory (hair removal) creams.
Electrolysis for hair removal.
Waxing for hair removal.
Laser hair removal.
What are the Ways to Prevent Hypertrichosis?
There is no way to prevent congenital hypertrichosis, but in the case of acquired hypertrichosis, the risk can be reduced by avoiding some immunosuppressants, androgenic steroids, and hair growth medications.
What are the Complications of Hypertrichosis?
Hypertrichosis can cause severe emotional problems for patients, especially for those who can not permanently remove hair with laser or electrolysis. Self-confidence and quality of life may be very low in these patients because of social discrimination and bullying.
When Should You See a Doctor?
In cases of hypertrichosis, it is essential to arrange psychological healthcare for patients in addition to medical care to treat the underlying cause of hypertrichosis, if there is one.
Frequently asked questions
Can hypertrichosis be treated permanently?
The treatment of patients with hypertrichosis depends on the cause. For those who have hereditary disorders, there is no definitive cure. For those with acquired hypertrichosis, satisfactory results can be expected once the underlying condition is treated or the causative medication is discontinued.
