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Updated: Jun 6, 2026
06:41
A New Technique for Quantitative Analysis of Hair Loss in Mice Using Grayscale Analysis
Published on: March 9, 2015
Poorly growing hair in a child
Diana Bolotin1, Bernhard Ortel, Sarah L Stein
1University of Chicago Medical Center, Section of Dermatology, MC5067 5841, South Maryland Avenue, Chicago, IL 60637, USA. dbolotin@uchicago.edu
Skinmed
|December 9, 2010
Summary
Loose anagen syndrome is a hair disorder causing slow hair growth in children. Microscopic examination revealed characteristic findings in anagen hairs, confirming the diagnosis.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Dermatology
- Trichology
- Genetics
Background:
- Loose anagen syndrome (LAS) is a condition characterized by the premature shedding of anagen hairs.
- It typically presents in childhood with complaints of poor or slow hair growth.
Observation:
- A healthy 5-year-old girl presented with a lifelong history of slow hair growth and fine-textured hair.
- Physical examination revealed short, fine, reddish-blond hair of varying lengths.
- Microscopic examination of plucked hairs showed characteristic features of loose anagen hair, including distorted bulbs and ruffled cuticles.
Findings:
- Hair pull test revealed easily epilated anagen hairs.
- Light microscopy confirmed the presence of loose anagen hairs, diagnostic of loose anagen syndrome.
- No other scalp abnormalities or systemic issues were identified.
Implications:
- This case highlights the importance of microscopic hair examination in diagnosing pediatric hair disorders.
- Early diagnosis of loose anagen syndrome can help manage parental concerns regarding hair growth.
- Further research into the genetic and molecular basis of loose anagen syndrome is warranted.
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