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Blowing Bubbles: Dermoscopy of Bubble Hair
Lauren N Albers1, Alexander M Maley1, Jamie B MacKelfresh1
1Department of Dermatology, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, USA.
High heat from blow dryers can cause bubble hair abnormality, leading to dry, brittle hair. Dermoscopy offers a quick and accurate in-office diagnosis for this condition.
Area of Science:
- Dermatology
- Trichology
Background:
- Bubble hair abnormality is a hair shaft disorder characterized by the presence of gas bubbles.
- It is often associated with exposure to high temperatures, particularly during hair drying.
Observation:
- A 61-year-old woman presented with significant hair breakage on her crown.
- She reported a history of regularly using a blow dryer on her damp hair.
Findings:
- Dermoscopy revealed numerous intra-hair shaft bubbles.
- Light microscopy confirmed the diagnosis of bubble hair abnormality.
Implications:
- This case underscores the commonality of bubble hair abnormality acquisition through everyday hair dryer use.
- Dermoscopy is presented as a valuable tool for rapid and precise diagnosis in a clinical setting.
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