Hair alteration in black patients with the acquired immunodeficiency syndrome

Four black men with the acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS) demonstrated profound alterations in hair patterns two to three years after their first symptoms appeared. The hair became longer, lighter, softer, and silky, and it was occasionally discolored. One patient was thought to be of Indian extraction. These changes may not be as apparent in nonblack persons. Possible explanations are a retrogression of hair pattern to an earlier stage of growth, a phenomenon reminiscent of, but not similar to, malnutrition trichosis, or a combination of both. Closer attention should be paid to the hair of AIDS patients. Histologic and chemical analysis may be appropriate.