Hypertrichosis: Types, Causes, Symptoms, & Treatment

Hypertrichosis, also known as werewolf syndrome, is a condition characterized by abnormal hair growth on the body. People with hypertrichosis often experience mental distress due to embarrassment. Experts suggest that hypertrichosis is primarily caused by genetic mutations and is unrelated to male hormones. It’s an exceedingly rare condition, affecting only one in 340 million individuals globally, with approximately 50 reported cases worldwide. This article delves into the causes, symptoms, and treatment options for hypertrichosis.

History of Hypertrichosis

Hypertrichosis’s earliest documented case dates back to the 17th century, when Aldrovandus identified Petrus Gonzales, a resident of the Canary Islands, who exhibited the condition. Gonzales and his family, including his daughters, were later brought to France, attracting the attention of scientists and researchers. Over the next three centuries, several cases of hypertrichosis were identified, leading to the condition being studied under different names such as hypertrichosis universalis, hypertrichosis of the dog-men, Ambras syndrome, or werewolf syndrome.

What Causes Hypertrichosis?

Hypertrichosis can be either inherited or acquired. Congenital hypertrichosis, present since birth, is primarily caused by genetic mutations and can result in excessive stimulation of hair follicles without abnormal levels of androgens. Acquired hypertrichosis can develop at any point in life and may be triggered by factors such as malnutrition, eating disorders, cancer, or certain medications like androgenic steroids or minoxidil.

Symptoms of Hypertrichosis

The primary symptom of hypertrichosis is excessive hair growth, although the density and type of hair may vary among individuals. Different types of hair associated with hypertrichosis include lanugo, vellous, and terminal hairs.

Lanugo: Lanugo hair refers to long, unmedullated hairs that are very soft and lack pigment. These hairs are typically present on newborns and usually shed naturally over time. However, in cases of hypertrichosis, lanugo hair persists and may require treatment.

Vellous: Vellous hairs are soft, lightly pigmented, and unmedullated. They are commonly found on a newborn’s face and have short hair follicles.

Terminal Hairs: Terminal hairs are produced by follicles and appear dense and dark in color due to the presence of pigment. The length of terminal hairs may vary depending on the area of the body.

Additional Symptoms:

In addition to excessive hair growth, hypertrichosis may be associated with other symptoms such as enlarged gums, missing teeth, intellectual delays, epilepsy, malformation features, and abnormalities of the eyes, heart, bones, and kidneys.

Types of Hypertrichosis

Understanding the different types of hypertrichosis is essential for accurate diagnosis and treatment. Hypertrichosis is broadly categorized into two main types: congenital and acquired. Each type is further subdivided based on the specific characteristics of excessive hair growth.

Congenital Hypertrichosis: Congenital hypertrichosis occurs during fetal development and is attributed to genetic mutations. This type of hypertrichosis presents various subtypes, including:

• • Hypertrichosis Lanuginosa: Characterized by the presence of fine, non-pigmented hair at birth, distributed across the body except for specific areas like palms, soles, lips, and mucous membranes.
  • Hypertrichosis Terminalis: This subtype involves excessive growth of thick, dark, and dense hair all over the body.
  • Localized Hypertrichosis: Localized hypertrichosis manifests as abnormal hair growth in specific areas of the body.
  • Circumscribed Hypertrichosis: Circumscribed hypertrichosis is characterized by heavy hair growth limited to the upper part of the body.
  • Nevoid Hypertrichosis: Nevoid hypertrichosis resembles localized hypertrichosis and presents as patches of hair growth in specific body locations.

Acquired Hypertrichosis: Acquired hypertrichosis develops later in life and can be caused by various factors such as diseases, poor diet, or certain medications. Subtypes of acquired hypertrichosis include:

• • Hypertrichosis Lanuginosa: Similar to the congenital subtype, this involves the growth of fine, non-pigmented hair.
  • Generalized Hypertrichosis: Involves excessive hair growth across the entire body.
  • Patterned Hair Growth: Characterized by hair growth in specific patterns or areas.

Hirsutism: Hirsutism is a type of hypertrichosis predominantly observed in women. It is characterized by excessive hair growth with a male pattern, typically in areas such as the upper lip or chin, which are uncommon sites for hair growth in women under normal circumstances. Hirsutism is largely influenced by androgens and hormonal imbalances.

Treatment Options for Hypertrichosis

Managing hypertrichosis often involves a combination of temporary and permanent hair removal methods tailored to individual preferences and needs. While congenital hypertrichosis lacks a permanent cure due to its genetic origin, acquired hypertrichosis caused by external factors can be prevented through lifestyle changes or avoiding triggering medications. Here are the treatment options available at NIS:
1. Temporary Hair Removal Methods
Temporary solutions like waxing, shaving, plucking, or depilation offer quick relief from unwanted hair. Skin bleaches can help cover fine or non-pigmented hair, albeit temporarily. However, these methods only provide short-term results and may require frequent repetition. Some individuals may find these methods unsuitable for certain body parts, and excessive plucking or threading can lead to skin irritation and discomfort.
2. Permanent Hair Removal Methods
For long-lasting results, NIS offers permanent hair removal methods such as electrolysis and laser hair removal:

Electrolysis: This procedure involves inserting a fine electrical wire into the hair shaft to deliver an electric current that destroys the hair papilla. It should be performed by a qualified professional to ensure safety and effectiveness.

Laser Hair Removal: Laser therapy utilizes a high-energy light beam to target the hair follicle beneath the skin’s surface. The heat generated by the laser destroys the hair follicles, weakening the hair and causing it to fall out. With repeated sessions, laser therapy can lead to permanent hair reduction. However, multiple sessions may be necessary for optimal results.