Monilethrix
Monilethrix Causes
The KRTHB1, KRTHB3 or KRTHB6 genes are mutated in the condition code for type II hair cortex keratins. Simply put, it is said to be likely cause by a mutation in a hair keratin.
Monilethrix Definition
Said to be an autosomal dominant hair disease resulting in short, fragile and broken hair that appears beaded, Monilethrix got its name from the Latin word monile which means necklace and thrix, which is the Greek word for hair. It has not been determined though whether the disease is a disorder of the function or the structure of the hair.
Monilethrix Diagnosis
Light microscopy with macroscopic examination aids in diagnosis. Those who have the disease may have hair nodes that have the diameter of normal hair and are medullated but the internodes don't medulla and are the sites of fracture. Scanning electron microscopy may also reveal useful findings. Dermoscopy can also be used as a rapid diagnosis for monilethrix where hair shafts may be shown with uniform elliptical nodes and intermittent constrictions. Hairs are found to have a tendency to fracture at constriction sites.
Monilethrix Symptoms and Signs
Alopecia is a common symptom of the disease but the severity varies from person to person. Hair follicle keratosis, follicular hyperkeratosis and nail deformities may also be manifested.
Monilethrix Treatment
There is no known effective treatment for the disorder.