Hypertrichosis
Alternative Names
Hypertrichosis, Ambras Syndrome,Werewolf SyndromeWhat is Hypertrichosis
Hypertrichosis (Werewolf Syndrome) is an unusual disease characterized by an abnormal amount of hair growth on the body. There are 2 types of hypertrichosis: generalized hypertrichosis which occurs over the entire body and localized hypertrichosis which is restricted to a certain area. Hypertrichosis can be either congenital (present at birth) or acquired later in life. The excess growth of hair occurs in areas of the skin with the exception of androgen-dependent hair of the pubic area, face and axillary regions.
Signs and symptoms
The distinctive feature of all forms of hypertrichosis is excess hair. Hair in hypertrichosis is usually longer than expected and may consist of any hair type (lanugo, vellus or terminal).
Possible complications
- Heart attack (myocardial infarction)
- Stroke
What causes
Some of the most notable Hypertrichosis causes are:
- Gene: this disease is supposed to be a congenital defect.
- Drugs: Hypertrichosis is a side-effect of certain drugs such as Cyclosporine, Vasodilator, Minoxidil and Phenetoina.
- Metabolic Disorder: it can be as a result of irregularities in the metabolism.
- Cancer: Hypertrichosis is also seen to arise after a person begins to suffer from cancer. Hair growth becomes normal once again after the affected part is removed.
Prevention
Prevention of Hypertrichosis is impossible, but the scientists still work over this problem.
Treatment
There is still no effective treatment for this disease. In Hypertrichosis medicines are proved to be ineffective for treatment. But there are some of the best steps preventing Hypertrichosis:
- Regular Shaving
- Use of Depilatories
- Electrolysis
- Laser Hair Removal
