Trichorrhexis nodosa

Last Updated: 2023-07-07

Author(s): Anzengruber F., Navarini A.

ICD11: ED73.Y

Entity described by

Wilks 1852

Synonym (s)

Hair nodule disease, trichonodosis.

Definition

Nodular hair anomaly.

Etiopathogenesis

Defects of the cuticle lead to a reduction of intercellular cementum and cortical cells. Due to this weakening of the hair skeleton, (incomplete) shaft fractures may occur.

Possible association:

Ectodermal dysplasias
Keratosis follicularis
Syndromes, such as: Menkes, Bjoernstad and Netherton syndromes and ichthyosis congenita

Clinical features

Dry, dull hair. Knotty, light-coloured frizz is often visible.

Diagnosis

Trichogram

Prophylaxis

Avoiding trauma.

Therapy

No therapy possible.

References

Haskin A, Kwatra SG, Aguh C. Breaking the cycle of hair breakage: pearls for the management of acquired trichorrhexis nodosa. J Dermatolog Treat. 2017 Jun;28(4):322-326
Sisto T, Bussoletti C, D'Amore A, Favoriti N, Fania L, Celleno L. Inability to grow long hair: a presentation of trichorrhexis nodosa. Cutis. 2015 Mar;95(3):E15-6.