Acquired Localized Hypertrichosis Induced by Internal Fixation and Plaster Cast Application

Abstract

Hypertrichosis refers to increased vellus hair growth and is independent to androgen excess. The acquired localized hypertrichosis (ALH) is one of the typical hypertrichosis, which mainly results from chronic irritation, inflammation, friction, and occlusion by plaster of Paris. Here, we report a young boy who had ALH on his right hand following a closed fracture with internal fixation and plaster cast application. The case is unusual because the hairy area is limited to the operative region of internal fixation. We suggest that the local vascular changes and skin inflammation induced by internal fixation and plaster cast application may be associated with ALH.

Acquired localised hypertrichosis in a Chinese child after cast immobilisation

“…4 Post-cast ALH has been reported in paediatric and young adult patients in various countries from 1989 to 2013, but the prevalence in local Chinese patients is unknown. [5][6][7][8][9][10][11] Complete resolution of hypertrichosis was noted at around 3 to 9 months after removal of the cast or splint.…”

Repigmentation of leucotrichia in vitiligo with noncultured cellular grafting

“…5 It has been proposed that excessive hyperaemia and increased blood supply at the affected site provides a plenitude of oxygen and nutrients, thus prolonging the anagen phase. 3,6,9 Furthermore, cutaneous hyperaemia Figure 2 The gel applied to keep the hair away from the field; for intralesional injection in a hypertrophic scar on the hair transplantation donor area. The comfort of the procedure with a clear field is well made out.…”

Plaster of Paris: Past, present and future

“…Localised hypertrichosis has also been reported as rare complication of internal fixation and POP application. 8 Recently parameters like cast index and gap index have been developed that predict cast failure. 9 Cast index is the ratio between the inside diameter of the cast on the lateral view to the inner diameter of the cast on AP view.…”