THE hypertrichosis popularly known as “werewolf syndrome “, is a rare dermatological condition characterized by excessive hair growth in different areas of the body. This growth can be localized or generalized.
Hypertrichosis is often confused with hirsutism a condition characterized by excessive hair growth in women in unusual places, such as the beard area. Unlike hypertrichosis, hirsutism is related to hormonal changes.
“Hypertrichosis can be congenital [de nascença] or acquired [causada por fatores externos]. When acquired, it can be related to systemic diseases, medication use and neoplasms”, explains Helena Rocchetto, dermatologist at Alta Diagnósticos, to CNN .
Among the medications that can cause hypertrichosis are phenytoin, oral minoxidil and cyclosporine, according to the specialist. Among the diseases that can lead to the condition are anorexia, malabsorption syndromes, hypothyroidism and paraneoplastic syndromes.
Symptoms of hypertrichosis
In general, the main symptom of hypertrichosis is excess hair growth on the body which may occur in a specific location on the body (localized hypertrichosis ) or in different regions (generalized hypertrichosis ).
In the case of congenital hypertrichosis, that is, present from birth, hair can cover the baby’s entire body, and the condition may be associated with genetic mutations. “In this case, other dental, auditory and skeletal malformations, among others, may occur,” says Rocchetto.
Hypertrichosis generally produces one of three types of hair:
- Vellus : short hair that can be located anywhere on the body, with the exception of the soles of the feet, the back of the ears, the lips, the palms of the hands or in scar tissue;
- Lanugo : soft and fine fur, similar to that found on the body of a newborn baby;
- Terminal : long, thick and generally very dark hair.
How to identify and treat the condition?
The diagnosis of hypertrichosis is made by a dermatologist by analyzing the appearance of the hair and its distribution on the body.
In addition, the patient’s clinical history can be evaluated, that is, the presence or history of endocrinological diseases, in addition to family history and a review of the use of medications that can lead to excessive hair growth.
The treatment of hypertrichosis depends on the initial cause, according to Rocchetto. “If it is caused by a medication, stopping it, if possible, can help reduce hair growth. If it is due to a systemic disease, we must diagnose it and treat the underlying cause”, he explains.
In addition, physical hair removal can be performed through manual waxing or laser hair removal, according to the dermatologist.
Is there a way to prevent it?
Congenital hypertrichosis cannot be prevented, but acquired hypertrichosis can. Therefore, early diagnosis is essential to prevent the disease from progressing.
In the case of hypertrichosis acquired through the use of medication, the risks should be discussed with the doctor before starting to administer the medication. Once the diagnosis of the condition is confirmed, the medication must be discontinued.
This content was originally published in Hypertrichosis: understand the disease known as “werewolf syndrome” on the CNN Brasil website.
Source: CNN Brasil
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