Identification of a novel U2HR mutation in a Korean woman with Marie Unna hereditary hypotrichosis

Genetic Hair Disorders: A Review

Hair loss in early childhood represents a broad differential diagnosis which can be a diagnostic and therapeutic challenge for a physician. It is important to consider the diagnosis of a genetic hair disorder. Genetic hair disorders are a large group of inherited disorders, many of which are rare. Genetic hair abnormalities in children can be an isolated phenomenon or part of genetic syndromes. Hair changes may be a significant finding or even the initial presentation of a syndrome giving a clue to the diagnosis, such as Netherton syndrome and trichothiodystrophy. Detailed history including family history and physical examination of hair and other ectodermal structures such as nails, sweat glands, and sebaceous glands with the use of dermoscopic devices and biopsy all provide important clues to establish the correct diagnosis. Understanding the pathophysiology of genetic hair defects will allow for better comprehension of their treatment and prognosis. For example, in patients with an isolated hair defect, the main problem is aesthetic. In contrast, when the hair defect is associated with a syndrome, the prognosis will depend mainly on the associated condition. Treatment of many genetic hair disorders is focused on treating the primary cause and minimizing trauma to the hair.

Marie-unna hereditary hypotrichosis

Marie-Unna type of hereditary hypotrichosis is a rare autosomal dominant disorder that has a distinctive type of hair loss pattern that varies with child's age. It is characterized by sparse or absent hair at birth with regrowth of coarse, wiry twisted hair from childhood, followed by progressive loss on approaching puberty. We report a 12-year-old male child with characteristic clinical features suggestive of hereditary hypotrichosis of Marie-Unna type.