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Localized acquired hypertrichosis associated with fracture and cast application.
Journal of the National Medical Association
|January 1, 1989
Summary
Localized hypertrichosis, or excessive hair growth, can occur in children after a fracture and cast. Increased blood flow to the skin (cutaneous hyperemia) is the suspected cause.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric dermatology
- Orthopedic complications
- Cutaneous manifestations
Background:
- Fracture and cast application are common orthopedic procedures in children.
- Localized hypertrichosis is an uncommon side effect that has been anecdotally reported.
- The underlying mechanism of post-fracture hypertrichosis remains unclear.
Observation:
- This report details three pediatric cases of localized hypertrichosis.
- The hypertrichosis developed in the area affected by the fracture and cast.
- Onset of hypertrichosis was noted after the removal of the cast.
Findings:
- The primary finding is the association between fracture immobilization and localized hypertrichosis.
- Histopathological examination was not performed in these cases.
- No other contributing factors were identified in the described cases.
Implications:
- The findings suggest a potential link between immobilization and altered skin physiology.
- Cutaneous hyperemia, or increased blood flow, is postulated as the causative factor.
- Further research is warranted to elucidate the pathophysiology and clinical significance of this phenomenon.