Variations in the beading configuration in monilethrix

Using information from a light microscope integrated with a computer, we quantified the variation in node and internode dimensions in monilethrix. We combined this with rate of growth measurements in individual hairs to make the following conclusions. There is considerable variation of node and internode configuration within single hairs. Hairs from the same scalp, sampled at the same time show no mutual coordination of node-internode formation, even when different growth rates are taken into account. There is no apparent correlation between the day-night cycle and the node-internode rhythm. The follicular expression of monilethrix appears largely independent of unifying systemic influences.