Hypertrichosis Lanuginosa Acquisita

Hypertrichosis lanuginosa acquisita is a medical condition characterized by excessive and unusual growth of fine, soft hair (lanugo) on various parts of the body. It is a rare and benign disorder that can affect individuals of any age, gender, and race. The term “acquired” in the name of the condition means that it develops later in life and is not present from birth.

Hypertrichosis lanuginosa acquisita is usually diagnosed based on a physical examination and a detailed medical history of the patient. In some cases, a skin biopsy may be needed to confirm the diagnosis. Hair growth is usually limited to the face, neck, chest, and arms, but it can also occur in other parts of the body. The hair is usually fine and soft, and it has a light color, typically blonde or light brown.

Causes

There are several causes of HLA, some of which are listed below.

  1. Hormonal imbalances: Hormonal imbalances can cause excessive hair growth in women. HLA has been linked to hormonal changes in the body, such as high levels of androgens (male hormones), which can lead to increased hair growth. Women with Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS), a condition that affects hormonal levels, are also at a higher risk of developing HLA.
  2. Drug-induced: HLA can be caused by medications that alter hormone levels, such as oral contraceptives and steroids. These medications can increase androgen levels, leading to excessive hair growth.
  3. Nutritional deficiencies: Nutritional deficiencies, such as iron deficiency anemia, can cause HLA. In these cases, hair growth is often a sign of a more serious underlying condition that needs to be addressed.
  4. autoimmune disorders: Autoimmune disorders, such as lupus and scleroderma, can cause HLA. In these cases, the body’s immune system attacks its own tissue, leading to hair growth on the affected areas.
  5. Cancer: Certain types of cancer, such as ovarian cancer, can cause HLA. In these cases, the cancer cells secrete androgens, leading to excessive hair growth.
  6. Genetic predisposition: Some people may be genetically predisposed to HLA, which means that they have a higher risk of developing the condition due to their genes.
  7. Infections: Certain infections, such as human papillomavirus (HPV) and HIV, can cause HLA. In these cases, the infections can alter hormone levels and trigger excessive hair growth.
  8. Psychological stress: Psychological stress can also cause HLA. In these cases, stress can trigger hormonal changes that lead to increased hair growth.

The exact cause of HLA is often difficult to determine, and it may be due to a combination of factors. A doctor may perform a physical examination and take a medical history to diagnose HLA. Additional tests, such as blood tests, hormone tests, and biopsy, may be performed to rule out other conditions and to determine the underlying cause of the condition.

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HLA can be distressing for those affected, as it often leads to unwanted hair growth on the face and other visible areas of the body. It can also have a significant impact on a person’s self-esteem and quality of life. There are several treatment options available for HLA, including laser hair removal, electrolysis, and medications that regulate hormones.

Symptoms

The main symptoms of HLA include:

  1. Abnormal hair growth: The excessive hair growth in HLA is found in areas such as the face, neck, chest, arms, legs, and back. The hair is usually fine and soft, resembling lanugo hair, which is the fine hair that covers a fetus in the womb. The hair growth may be patchy or widespread and may be accompanied by itching and discomfort.
  2. Hair thickness: The hair growth in HLA is usually finer and softer than normal hair, but in some cases, it may become thick and coarser.
  3. Itching: HLA patients may experience itching and discomfort in areas of excessive hair growth. This can be due to the hair irritating the skin or due to an underlying skin condition.
  4. Skin irritation: Excessive hair growth can lead to skin irritation, redness, and itching. In severe cases, it may also cause skin infections or abscesses.
  5. Psychological impact: HLA can have a significant psychological impact on patients, especially if it affects visible areas such as the face. Patients may experience low self-esteem, anxiety, and depression as a result of their appearance.
  6. Pigment changes: In some cases, excessive hair growth in HLA may be accompanied by changes in skin pigmentation, including darkening or lightening of the skin.
  7. Other symptoms: HLA may also be accompanied by other symptoms such as fatigue, weight loss, and low energy levels. In some cases, it may also be associated with underlying medical conditions such as autoimmune diseases or cancer.

HLA is a rare condition, and its exact cause is unknown. However, some of the factors that may contribute to its development include:

  1. Autoimmune diseases: HLA may be a symptom of an underlying autoimmune disease such as lupus or Sjogren’s syndrome.
  2. Cancer: In some cases, HLA may be a symptom of an underlying cancer, such as lymphoma or leukaemia.
  3. Medications: Certain medications, such as minoxidil and topical corticosteroids, have been known to cause HLA.
  4. Hormonal imbalances: Hormonal imbalances such as hypothyroidism or hyperthyroidism may also contribute to the development of HLA.
  5. Idiopathic: In some cases, the cause of HLA is unknown and is considered idiopathic.

Diagnosis

The hair is typically fine and downy, and the condition is acquired later in life, rather than being present from birth. HLA is a type of hypertrichosis, which is a general term used to describe excessive hair growth.

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Diagnosis

The diagnosis of HLA is primarily based on clinical examination and the characteristic distribution of hair growth. A dermatologist will perform a thorough examination of the skin and hair, and may take a biopsy to rule out any underlying conditions that may be causing the hair growth.

There are several tests that may be used to support a diagnosis of HLA, including:

  1. Skin biopsy: A skin biopsy is a procedure in which a small sample of skin is removed and examined under a microscope. The biopsy can provide valuable information about the type and amount of hair growth, as well as any underlying skin conditions that may be contributing to the hair growth.
  2. Hormonal tests: Hormonal imbalances can sometimes cause excessive hair growth, so a dermatologist may perform hormonal tests to rule out any underlying hormonal conditions.
  3. Blood tests: A complete blood count (CBC) and other blood tests may be performed to determine if there are any underlying medical conditions that may be contributing to the hair growth.

Treatment

The main treatments for hypertrichosis lanuginosa acquisita include hair removal, medication, and laser therapy.

Hair Removal

One of the most common treatments for hypertrichosis lanuginosa acquisita is hair removal. This can be done through various methods such as shaving, waxing, or plucking. Shaving is the simplest and most convenient method, but it may cause skin irritation and stubble. Waxing can be painful and can also cause skin irritation. Plucking is a more effective method, but it can be time-consuming and may cause pain and redness.

Medication

Medications are another common treatment for hypertrichosis lanuginosa acquisita. The most commonly used medications are topical minoxidil and oral finasteride. Topical minoxidil is a hair growth stimulant that is applied directly to the affected area. It is believed to work by increasing blood flow to the hair follicles, which promotes hair growth. However, it may take several months to see results and it is not effective for everyone.

  1. Medications: The most commonly used medications to treat HLA are topical and oral corticosteroids. These drugs suppress the activity of the immune system and reduce the inflammation that triggers hair growth. However, long-term use of corticosteroids can lead to side effects such as thinning of the skin and increased risk of infections.
  2. Laser hair removal: This is a cosmetic procedure that uses intense pulsed light to destroy hair follicles and reduce hair growth. This treatment is usually performed by a dermatologist and can be effective in reducing hair growth in HLA, but it can be expensive and may need to be repeated regularly.
  3. Electrolysis: This procedure uses a small needle to deliver a current to the hair follicle and destroy it. This method is effective in reducing hair growth, but it can be time-consuming and painful.
  4. Topical minoxidil: Minoxidil is a medication that is used to treat hair loss and is sometimes used to treat HLA. This medication is applied topically to the affected area and can help to slow down hair growth.
  5. Behavioral modification: In some cases, individuals with HLA may find that their hair growth is triggered by stress or anxiety. In these cases, behavioral modification techniques such as stress management, relaxation techniques, and counseling can be helpful in reducing hair growth.
  6. Surgical removal: In severe cases of HLA, surgical removal of the affected hair may be considered. This procedure is usually performed by a dermatologist and involves the removal of the hair follicles.
  7. Photodynamic therapy: This is a new and innovative treatment that involves the application of a photosensitizing agent to the affected area and then exposing it to a special light source. This procedure is thought to destroy the hair follicles and reduce hair growth.
  8. Oral finasteride – It is a medication that is used to treat hair loss. It works by blocking the production of dihydrotestosterone, a hormone that is believed to cause hair loss. Finasteride is effective for some people with hypertrichosis lanuginosa acquisita, but it can take several months to see results and it is not effective for everyone.
  9. Laser Therapy – Laser therapy is another treatment option for hypertrichosis lanuginosa acquisita. This involves using a laser to destroy the hair follicles and prevent future hair growth. Laser therapy is a relatively painless and non-invasive procedure that is effective for many people with hypertrichosis lanuginosa acquisita. However, it can be expensive and may require multiple treatments to see results.
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Hypertrichosis lanuginosa acquisita is a rare condition that causes excessive hair growth on the body and face. The main treatments for hypertrichosis lanuginosa acquisita include hair removal, medication, and laser therapy. Each treatment option has its own advantages and disadvantages, and the best treatment will depend on the individual’s specific needs and preferences. If you have hypertrichosis lanuginosa acquisita, it is important to speak with your doctor to determine the best treatment option for you.

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