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Inherited hypertrichoses
D Garcia-Cruz1, L E Figuera, J M Cantu
1División de Genética, Centro de Investigación Biomédica, Centro Médico de Occidente del Instituto Mexicano del Seguro Social and Centro Universiario Ciencias de la Salud, Universidad de Guadalajara, Mexico.
Clinical Genetics
|June 26, 2002
Summary
Hypertrichosis involves excessive hair growth, independent of androgens, age, or sex. This rare condition presents diverse forms, including nine distinct generalized hypertrichosis entities with varying genetic and clinical features.
Area of Science:
- Dermatology
- Genetics
- Rare Diseases
Background:
- Hypertrichosis is characterized by excessive hair growth in non-androgen-dependent areas.
- It is independent of age, race, or sex and can manifest in various forms: congenital, late-onset, generalized, localized, inherited, or acquired.
- Over 50 OMIM entries are associated with hypertrichosis, yet few have identified gene loci or candidate genes.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review generalized hypertrichoses from a historical perspective.
- To examine the clinical and genetic features of different hypertrichosis types.
- To analyze other forms of hypertrichosis.
Main Methods:
- Historical review of generalized hypertrichoses.
- Analysis of clinical and genetic characteristics.
- Compilation of OMIM entries related to hypertrichosis.
Main Results:
- Generalized hypertrichoses exhibit significant heterogeneity, with at least nine distinct entities identified.
- The review highlights the diverse clinical and genetic presentations of these conditions.
- Limited progress has been made in localizing genes for many hypertrichosis cases.
Conclusions:
- Hypertrichosis is a heterogeneous condition with complex genetic underpinnings.
- Further research is needed to identify specific gene loci and candidate genes for various forms of hypertrichosis.
- Understanding the diverse entities of hypertrichosis is crucial for diagnosis and potential therapeutic strategies.
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