Circle Hairs in a Patient with Multiple Myeloma

Area of Science:

• Dermatology
• Pathophysiology
• Medical Case Reports

Background:

• Circle hair is a rare disorder characterized by coiled hairs below the skin's cornified layer.
• Its etiology and pathophysiology remain largely unknown since its initial description in 1963.
• Histopathological features include dilated hair-follicle infundibula and entrapped hair shafts.

Observation:

• An 80-year-old woman presented with skin lesions and abnormal hair growth on both legs.
• The patient exhibited characteristics consistent with circle hair disorder.
• The patient had a history of acquired ichthyosis secondary to multiple myeloma.

Findings:

• A potential mechanism for circle hair development is proposed, linking it to acquired ichthyosis.
• The condition may be secondary to underlying systemic diseases like multiple myeloma.
• Topical humectant and keratolytic agents demonstrated clinical improvement by reducing skin moisture and hair entrapment.

Implications:

• This case report contributes to understanding the rare circle hair disorder.
• It highlights a potential association between circle hair, acquired ichthyosis, and multiple myeloma.
• Further research is needed to elucidate the unknown pathogenesis of circle hair.