What Is Uncombable Hair Syndrome?
Uncombable Hair Syndrome (UHS) is a genetic condition in which a child’s hair grows in different directions and cannot be flattened with combing. In affected individuals, the hair grows in multiple directions instead of downward. The hair may be dry, frizzy, and lighter in tone. Hair present on other body parts of the child grows normally, except for the hair present on the scalp. The hair of an affected child may be light colored, described as blond or silvery with a glistening sheen. This condition resolves on its own with time. UHS is also called spun-glass hair, unmanageable hair syndrome, cheveux incoiffables, or pili trianguli et canaliculi. UHS affects the hair shaft and is primarily seen in children aged between three months and 12 years, typically resolving in adulthood.
The occurrence of UHS is not known. It often goes undiagnosed, as it typically resolves on its own as the child grows into an adult. There are 100 cases recorded, but many of these cases may not have been accurately documented; therefore, the actual number of cases may be higher than 100, as reported in the medical literature.
UHS may be affected in children whose parents or one of their parents has an affected gene that causes UHS. It was noted that many genes are responsible for this condition. During conception, a child may inherit genes from either parent or both.
What Causes Uncombable Hair Syndrome?
UHS is a genetic disorder; hence, the cause is mainly mutations in certain genes. When changes occur in the genes or a mutation happens, especially to those genes that instruct how hair strands on the scalp should grow, UHS can develop.
Genes that are involved in the case of UHS include
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PAD13.
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TGM3.
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TCHH.
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An additional gene, yet to be recognized.
These genes provide instructions for the hair strands to grow cylindrically. This shape provides direction for your hair to grow in a single direction. Whenever there is a mutation or change in your related genes, it affects the hair shaft. This causes your hair shaft to become different shapes, such as a triangle, a heart, or an octagon. In such cases, the angles and points change the direction in which the hair strand should grow.
What Are the Symptoms and Signs of Uncombable Hair Syndrome?
Symptoms of UHS are related to the affected child’s hair. These include:
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Hair may have a coarse or rough texture.
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Hair may be white or woolly.
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Some may exhibit patchy alopecia.
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Hair may have abnormal morphology.
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Hair is dry, frizzy, and difficult to comb or smooth.
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Hair looks shiny and light in color. It looks silver, white, or blonde to light brown.
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Hair may grow in multiple directions.
Not all these symptoms may be observed in one affected individual, but some combinations may be present. It was noted that some affected children exhibit dark or brown hair, but their hair cannot be combed due to its texture.
How Is Uncombable Hair Syndrome Diagnosed?
The diagnosis of UHS is made after taking a medical history and performing a physical examination. Healthcare providers observe all the symptoms, and by conducting a visual examination of the hair on your child's scalp, they are able to diagnose UHS.
The following tests are advised to confirm UHS. These tests are
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Hair shaft test: A hair strand is taken from your child’s scalp and subjected to a microscope. He observes an irregular shape. If the hair strand is irregular, it confirms the presence of UHS.
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Genetic test: A small sample of blood is taken from your child and observed for any genetic mutation. If they come across a genetic mutation in the PAD13, TGM3, or TCHH, it is confirmed that it is UHS.
How Can Uncombable Hair Syndrome Be Treated?
UHS does not have any particular treatment. Hair can be managed with a gentle and effective hair care routine. This can be done till it improves in adulthood. Harsh chemicals should not be used in hair treatments, as they may worsen symptoms or damage the hair. In the case of UHS, excessive combing or brushing of hair should be avoided. Usage of heated hair styling tools should be minimal or avoided. These can be of great help in UHS. Regular haircuts for an affected child and the use of soft-bristled brushes to comb their hair may help with hair maintenance in UHS.
According to several studies, it has been observed that the use of biotin supplements is beneficial in improving hair appearance and management. Affected individuals generally have low self-esteem. Hence, it is better to consult a mental health professional.
Can Uncombable Hair Syndrome Be Prevented?
No, UHS cannot be prevented, as it is a genetic condition that results from genetic mutations. To know about the risk of having a child with a genetic condition, one can consult a genetic counselor for genetic testing.
Conclusion:
Everyone is concerned about their hairstyle. When one can observe abnormal hair strands in children that grow in multiple directions, UHS can be suspected. UHS is a genetic condition, and one cannot avoid its occurrence. Hence, it becomes essential to have a comprehensive understanding of UHS. Being aware of it helps in managing it effectively.
Key Takeaway From iCliniq
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Uncombable hair syndrome, however, does not appear to be a real medical condition; it is a real condition.
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It should be managed carefully till it improves in adulthood.
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For more information, you can consult a pediatrician at iCliniq.
