Acquired trichorrhexis nodosa: how to diagnose it?

Area of Science:

• Dermatology
• Hair Disorders
• Microscopy

Background:

• Acquired trichorrhexis nodosa (ATN) is an uncommon hair shaft abnormality.
• It results from external factors like chemical treatments damaging the hair cuticle.
• Early diagnosis is crucial for effective management.

Observation:

• This report details a clinical case of ATN.
• Diagnostic methods including trichoscopy, optical microscopy, and scanning electron microscopy were compared.
• The study evaluated the cost-benefit ratio of each diagnostic tool.

Findings:

• High-quality diagnostic tools like scanning electron microscopy are often inaccessible and costly.
• Dermoscopy with non-polarized light offers a practical and effective alternative for ATN diagnosis.
• Clinical history and examination are vital components of the diagnostic process.

Implications:

• Dermoscopy provides a valuable, accessible tool for diagnosing acquired trichorrhexis nodosa.
• This finding can improve diagnostic efficiency in clinical settings.
• It highlights the importance of non-invasive methods in hair disorder diagnosis.