About Acquired hypertrichosis lanuginosa
What is Acquired hypertrichosis lanuginosa?
Acquired hypertrichosis lanuginosa is a rare condition characterized by excessive hair growth on the face and body. It is usually caused by an underlying medical condition, such as an endocrine disorder, or by certain medications. The hair growth is usually fine and soft, and may be accompanied by other symptoms, such as skin discoloration or itching. Treatment typically involves addressing the underlying cause, if possible, and managing the symptoms.
What are the symptoms of Acquired hypertrichosis lanuginosa?
The symptoms of Acquired hypertrichosis lanuginosa include:
-Thick, soft, downy hair growth on the face, neck, chest, back, arms, and legs
-Excessive hair growth in areas not normally affected by hair growth
-Itching or Burning sensation in the affected areas
-Darkening of the skin in the affected areas
-Enlarged pores in the affected areas
-Increased sensitivity to sunlight in the affected areas
What are the causes of Acquired hypertrichosis lanuginosa?
Acquired hypertrichosis lanuginosa is a rare condition that is caused by a variety of underlying medical conditions, including:
1. Endocrine disorders such as Cushing's syndrome, hypothyroidism, and acromegaly.
2. Certain medications, such as phenytoin, minoxidil, and cyclosporine.
3. Certain infections, such as HIV/AIDS, syphilis, and tuberculosis.
4. Certain genetic disorders, such as neurofibromatosis and tuberous sclerosis.
5. Certain cancers, such as Hodgkin's lymphoma and leukemia.
6. Certain metabolic disorders, such as porphyria cutanea tarda.
7. Certain neurological disorders, such as multiple sclerosis and myasthenia gravis
What are the treatments for Acquired hypertrichosis lanuginosa?
1. Topical medications: These include topical corticosteroids, calcipotriol, tazarotene, and topical retinoids.
2. Laser therapy: This is a non-invasive treatment that uses a laser to remove the excess hair.
3. Electrolysis: This is a more invasive treatment that uses an electric current to destroy the hair follicles.
4. Surgery: This is a more invasive treatment that involves removing the affected area of skin.
5. Hormone therapy: This is a treatment that involves taking medications to reduce the production of hormones that can cause excessive hair growth.
What are the risk factors for Acquired hypertrichosis lanuginosa?
1. Exposure to certain medications, such as minoxidil, cyclosporine, and phenytoin
2. Exposure to certain chemicals, such as arsenic, thallium, and lead
3. Certain medical conditions, such as polycystic ovary syndrome, Cushing's syndrome, and acromegaly
4. Certain genetic conditions, such as Rubinstein-Taybi syndrome and Proteus syndrome
5. Certain infections, such as HIV and syphilis
6. Certain endocrine disorders, such as hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism
7. Certain nutritional deficiencies, such as iron deficiency anemia
8. Certain autoimmune disorders, such as lupus erythematosus and scleroderma
9. Certain cancers, such as Hodgkin's lymphoma and leukemia
Is there a cure/medications for Acquired hypertrichosis lanuginosa?
There is no known cure for Acquired hypertrichosis lanuginosa. However, medications such as minoxidil, finasteride, and eflornithine may be used to reduce the amount of hair growth. Additionally, laser hair removal and electrolysis may be used to reduce the amount of hair growth.