Hypertrichosis and Hirsutism Abnormal hair growth Abnormal growth

Hypertrichosis and Hirsutism

Abnormal hair growth � Abnormal growth is directly associated with endocrine influences, which causes changes in the hormonal balance of the body and alters the hair growth � Hypertrichosis and hirsutism are terms used to describe different hair growth conditions

Hypertrichosis

Hypertrichosis � It is an over growth of vellus hair and terminal hair which is considered excessive for the age, sex and race of the individual � Its causes are not always clear

May be caused by � Genetic or racial predisposition (hereditary) � Stress and anxiety � Hormone imbalance which can be caused by any of the following 1. Puberty, pregnancy and menopause 2. Tumour or cyst on certain glands 3. Reaction to certain drugs 4. Removal of certain glands

Hirsutism

Hirsutism � Is a wider general growth of excessive terminal hair which follows the hair growth of the adult male sexual pattern � It can be accompanied by other male type characteristics, and is usually androgen induced this will occur in conditions where the hormones are imbalanced

Hirsutism � For 1. 2. 3. 4. example Genetic, racial, family and heredity Problems with the adrenal glands or ovaries Sexual abnormalities Systemic illness i. e. Archard Thiers syndrome ( post menopausal )

General Information � All hair growth, where ever it is found on the body and whether normal or excessive, can be said to be hormone dependent. � However if its the beard area of facial hair , auxiliary, chest, abdominal and pubic hair that are classified as “sexual hair” and changes involving these would point to

Factors affecting the Growth, Rate and Quantity of hair � Exposure to strong sunlight - body protects itself from burning � Pregnancy – normally temporary and is due to increased hormone activity � Age – a natural decline in hormone levels can cause an increase in facial hair in women � Hereditary - this predisposition may be inherited from parents

Factors that affect hair growth Health and diet – anorexia nervosa may alter hormone levels � Stress – increased production of adrenalin androgens can lead to increased hair growth � Medical conditions - the removal of the ovaries can alter hormone balance � Broken arm – the friction due to the plaster can increase the blood supply leading to a temporary increase of hair growth � Medication – certain medication can effect hair growth �