Acquired structural defects of the hair

Area of Science:

• Dermatology
• Medical Mycology
• Parasitology

Background:

• Trichorrhexis nodosa is a genetic hair shaft defect.
• Acquired forms are less common and multifactorial.

Observation:

• Two patients presented with acquired hair shaft abnormalities.
• Clinical presentation mimicked genetic trichorrhexis nodosa.

Findings:

• Potential contributing factors identified: selenium shampoo use and bacterial infection (trichomycosis axillaris).
• Strongyloides larvae infestation was a possible cause of trichonodosis in one patient.

Implications:

• Highlights the importance of considering environmental and infectious factors in acquired hair shaft disorders.
• Suggests differential diagnosis for trichorrhexis nodosa should include acquired causes.
• Underscores the need for thorough patient history and investigations to identify underlying triggers.