Uncombable hair syndrome
Rare scalp hair shaft dysplasia / From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
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Uncombable hair syndrome (UHS) is a rare structural anomaly of the hair with a variable degree of effect. It is characterized by hair that is silvery, dry, frizzy, wiry, and impossible to comb.[4] It was first reported in the early 20th century.[5] It typically becomes apparent between the ages of 3 months and 12 years.[6] UHS has several names, including pili trianguli et canaliculi (Latin), cheveux incoiffables (French), and "spun-glass hair".[7] This disorder is believed to be autosomal recessive in most instances, but there are a few documented cases where multiple family members display the trait in an autosomal dominant fashion. Based on the current scientific studies related to the disorder, the three genes that have been causally linked to UHS are PADI3, TGM3, and TCHH. These genes encode proteins important for hair shaft formation.[8] Clinical symptoms of the disorder arise between 3 months and 12 years of age. The quantity of hair on the head does not change, but hair starts to grow more slowly and becomes increasingly "uncombable". To be clinically apparent, 50% of all scalp hair shafts must be affected by UHS.[7][9] This syndrome only affects the hair shaft of the scalp and does not influence hair growth in terms of quantity, textural feel, or appearance on the rest of the body.[7]
Uncombable hair syndrome | |
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Hair of a person with uncombable hair syndrome | |
Specialty | Medical genetics ![]() |
Usual onset | Symptoms would be apparent between 3 months – 12 years[1] |
Duration | Lifelong or until puberty |
Differential diagnosis | Woolly hair, pili torti, pili annulati, trichorrhexis invaginata, trichorrhexis nodosa[2] |
Frequency | Rare,[1] precise prevalence unknown[3] |