Understanding Plica Polonica: Symptoms, Causes, Treatment, and Prevention at NIS

Plica Polonica, also known as Plica neuropathica, is a rare condition affecting the hair shaft, characterized by matted hair entangled to form a sticky mass. Its name, Plica Polonica, stems from its prevalence in Poland during the 19th century, where it was commonly associated with poor hair care practices and the tradition of wearing tight fur caps, among other superstitions. While external factors can contribute to Plica Polonica, some individuals intentionally create this irregular scalp hair mass due to religious beliefs, using substances like wax, tar, or herbal mixtures. This article delves into the clinical features, symptoms, causes, and treatment options for Plica Polonica.

What is Plica Polonica ?

Plica Polonica presents as a solid mass of scalp hair with irregular twists, forming plaits that become hard over time due to keratin buildup and accumulation of dirt and exudates. These matted hair plaits are impenetrable and bear a resemblance to a bird’s nest.

Background of Plica Polonica

First mentioned in 1884 by Le Page, Plica Polonica has historical roots dating back to ancient scriptures, such as those describing Lord Shiva and his followers with matted hair dreadlocks known as “JaTaa.” The term Plica Polonica was coined to describe this condition, prevalent in Poland due to poor hair hygiene practices. Additionally, certain religious customs, like offering long locks to deities, contribute to the cultural significance of matted hair in various societies.

Symptoms of Plica Polonica

Plica Polonica shows some very typical symptoms such as,

• • Irregular twists and tangles in scalp hair
  • Formation of hard keratin mass that is impenetrable
  • Foul smell from hair mass
  • Hair cemented together with formation of pus, blood, crusts and dirt
  • Hair loss from rest of the scalp
  • Infestation with nits and lice
  • Inflammation of scalp

Causes of Plica Polonica

While the exact causes of Plica Polonica remain unclear, experts attribute it to a combination of physical, chemical, and behavioral factors. Common triggers include

• • Frequent use of harsh shampoos that causes hair splitting
  • Poor scalp hygiene
  • Infestation with lice
  • Irritant contact dermatitis of the scalp
  • Psychological disturbances
  • Vigorous rubbing of hair
  • Religious beliefs and superstitions may also lead to intentional creation of Plica Polonica using various substances.

Risk factors of Plica Polonica

Risk factors for Plica Polonica include

• • Having kinky or long curly hair
  • Longitudinal splitting
  • Weathering of the hair
  • Habitual hair manipulation
  • Certain mental health conditions
  • Scalp pyoderma

Specific medications

• • Febrile illness
  • Excessive sweating on the scalp
  • Wearing tight headgear

Treatment of Plica Polonica

Treatment for Plica Polonica involves confirming the diagnosis through careful scalp examination and possibly trichoscopy. While mild cases may respond to thorough hair washing and manual separation of entangled hair, severe cases may require cutting or shaving off the matted hair, overnight application of insecticides for lice infestation, and oral antibiotics for bacterial infection.

How is Plica Polonica prevented?

Preventive measures include

• • Regular hair cleaning with mild cleansers
  • Avoiding harsh chemicals
  • Scalp massage with oil
  • Use of hair conditioner
  • Keeping hair moisturized
  • Gentle combing
  • Regular trimming
  • Avoiding piling hair over the crown
  • Refraining from backcombing
  • Changing hair-twisting habits

By understanding the symptoms, causes, and preventive measures associated with Plica Polonica, individuals can take proactive steps to maintain healthy scalp and hair hygiene.