Uncombable Hair Syndrome

Uncombable hair syndrome, also known as UHS. Is an extremely rare condition that causes the hair to become dry, frizzy, and impossible to comb flat. It typically appears before age 3. But it can appear as late as age 12 in some cases. It seems uncommon since researchers are only aware of approximately one hundred occurrences. However, there are probably many additional cases doctors aren’t diagnosing. Because the disorder’s symptoms frequently disappear during infancy. The following are some alternative names for the condition:

• Pili trianguli et canaliculi
• Spun glass hair
• Cheveux incoiffables
• Unmanageable hair syndrome

Why Does It Happen Uncombable Hair Syndrome?

The UHS is a condition that normally develops on its own due to alterations. Often known as “mutations,” in 3 genes that give direction on how to produce hair strands on the scalp. The following describes these genes:

• TCHH
• TGM3
• PAD13

You will likely inherit certain gene mutations if both of your parents have a form of the mutation themselves. Even if your parents do not have the disorder themselves (autosomal recessive inheritance). Even if just one of a person’s parents has the mutation. There is still a possibility that their child will get the disorder (autosomal dominant inheritance).

The tubular structure of the shaft transforms into a more angular form. Like a triangle or a heart, resulting from these alterations. This alters the feel, making it more challenging to brush out. Modifies the hair’s color through light reflection. People can get the Uncombable Hair Syndrome even if they have no mutations in the genes. Researchers are still trying to figure out what caused the UHS in these patients.

Symptoms Of the Syndrome of Uncombable Hair

The syndrome of uncombable hair is an extremely uncommon condition that affects the hair shaft and the scalp. The disordered, straw-colored, or silvery-blond hair that protrudes from the scalp cannot be combed flat and is a typical indicator of uncombable hair syndrome. The symptoms of uncombable hair syndrome might appear at any moment between three months and twelve years old.

The hair on the scalp is the only area that is affected by uncombable hair syndrome. The amount of hair continues to be normal, but the growth rate of the hair is frequently slow. After some time has passed, the color of the hair changes to a silvery-blonde or straw-like hue; it dries out and becomes disorganized, meaning that it stands on end and grows in various directions, and it becomes difficult to comb flat.

The condition is not always characterized by an increase in the hair’s fragility; nonetheless, in certain situations, breaking can be caused by persistent efforts to maintain the hair. The later years of childhood are typically associated with significant unprompted improvement.

In situations where UHS is a component of a syndrome, other indications and symptoms may be present. Because of this, it is essential to evaluate whether the syndrome is an isolated occurrence or whether it is part of a syndrome.

When Do the Symptoms of This Condition First Appear?

The age at which symptoms of an illness often begin to manifest is the disease’s age of onset. The age at which symptoms first appear can vary from one disease to another, and a physician might consider this factor when making a diagnosis. In many disorders, the onset of symptoms can occur anywhere from a particular age range to multiple age ranges.

Do Genetic Factors Play a Role in Uncombable Hair Syndrome?

Mutations in PADI3, TGM3, or TCHH cause uncombable hair syndrome, inherited in an autosomal recessive manner. Parents of a child with a disorder passed down by autosomal recessive inheritance each contain one copy of the defective gene. Still, in most cases, the parents do not exhibit any signs or symptoms of the disorder themselves.

A Diagnosis of The Unmanageable Hair Syndrome

The inability to comb one’s hair is one of the hallmark signs of uncombable hair syndrome, which can be diagnosed by first noting these symptoms and then using a specialized microscope to examine the hair shaft. When seen under a microscope, each hair strand has a cross-section that is either kidney-shaped or triangular, and it also possesses a canal-like longitudinal groove running along one or both of its faces.

Individuals concerned about uncombable hair syndrome are recommended to discuss the possibility of getting examined for this condition with their dermatologist. The recent identification of the genes linked to the illness raises the possibility that genetic testing will be available someday.

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Treatment For the Syndrome of Uncombable Hair

Uncombable hair syndrome is a disorder that hair experts cannot cure, but it typically gets better or goes away on its own when puberty sets in. There is no specific treatment for the condition. It is normally recommended to take care of your hair gently by using soft brushes and conditioners, as well as to avoid harsh hair treatments like permanent waves (perms), blow drying, chemical relaxants, or excessive brushing.

These tactics may make the hair easier to maintain in general, but the degree to which they are effective is subjective. Utilizing biotin supplements is yet another approach that has been recommended to enhance the hair’s overall appearance. After four months of treatment, one case study revealed a considerable improvement in hair combability and strength, along with an elevation in the growth rate.

Uncombable Hair Syndrome Prognosis

The condition known as uncombable hair syndrome typically clears itself spontaneously when a person reaches their teenage years. In most cases, medical treatment is not required. In cases where uncombable hair syndrome is a component of a syndrome, the prognosis will be determined by the particular illness in question and the signs and symptoms present in the affected individual.

Conclusion

Uncombable hair syndrome, also known as UHS, is an extremely uncommon condition that affects the hair shaft and the scalp. In most cases, it can be identified by straw-colored or silvery-blond hair unkempt, protruding from the head, and being unable to be combed down into a flat surface. There is currently no known cure for the disorder; however, there are some ways to manage them. Your health care specialist can help you with some care plans.