hypertrichosis of eyelid

Hypertrichosis of the Eyelid: A Rare Condition

Hypertrichosis, also known as werewolf syndrome, is a rare condition characterized by excessive hair growth on various parts of the body. When it affects the eyelid, it can cause significant changes in appearance.

• Increased Hair Growth: The most notable symptom of hypertrichosis of the eyelid is an increase in hair growth around the eye area. This can lead to thicker and longer eyelashes, as well as additional lash rows.
• Conversion of Vellus to Terminal Hairs: In some cases, the condition can cause vellus hairs (fine, soft hairs) to convert into terminal hairs (coarser, darker hairs), leading to a more pronounced appearance.
• Variable Lengths and Thickness: The length and thickness of the hair growth on the eyelid can vary from person to person. Some individuals may experience shorter and thinner hair growth, while others may have longer and thicker hair.

According to medical literature [1], hypertrichosis of the eyelid is often associated with topical treatment using latanoprost, a medication used to treat glaucoma. This condition can be distressing for those affected, and it's essential to be aware of this potential side effect when undergoing such treatments.

References:

[1] Johnstone MA (1997) Hypertrichosis and increased pigmentation of eyelashes and adjacent hair in the region of the ipsilateral eyelids of patients treated with unilateral topical latanoprost. [2]

[2] Johnstone MA (1997) Latanoprost-treated eyes develop hypertrichosis and increased pigmentation in the region of treatment. Patients may benefit from being made aware of this side effect. [3]

[3] Manifestations include greater thickness and length of lashes, additional lash rows, conversion of vellus to terminal hairs in canthal areas as well as in other regions. [4]

Note: The citations refer to the search results provided in the context section.

Based on the provided context, it appears that there are several forms of hypertrichosis, a condition characterized by excessive hair growth anywhere on the body.

Common signs and symptoms of hypertrichosis:

• Excessive hair growth may present at birth or occur later in life
• Hair growth can be generalized or localized to specific areas
• Type of body hair can vary based on the different forms of hypertrichosis

Specifically, regarding hypertrichosis of the eyelid, it is mentioned that:

• Congenital hypertrichosis terminalis (a form of hypertrichosis) involves abnormal hair growth beginning at birth and continuing throughout a person's life
• Hair, usually long and thick, covers the person's face and body, including the eyelids

However, there is no specific information provided in the context about the signs and symptoms of hypertrichosis specifically affecting the eyelid. It is possible that this condition may be related to other forms of hypertrichosis or other conditions altogether.

Possible connections:

• Trichomegaly (a form of hypertrichosis) can cause lesions on the skin, which may be accompanied by eye symptoms or cursory eye signs
• Myasthenia gravis (an autoimmune condition) can cause a drooping eyelid, blurred or double vision, and other symptoms that may be related to hypertrichosis

Conclusion:

While there is some information provided in the context about hypertrichosis, it does not specifically address the signs and symptoms of hypertrichosis affecting the eyelid. Further research would be necessary to determine the exact characteristics of this condition.

References:

• [12] Congenital hypertrichosis terminalis: Abnormal hair growth begins at birth and continues throughout a person’s life.
• [13] Hypertrichosis

Based on the provided context, it appears that there are several diagnostic tests and methods for assessing hypertrichosis, particularly in relation to the eyelids.

• Visual examination: A visual examination by a dermatologist or ophthalmologist can help identify excessive hair growth on the eyelashes and surrounding areas [4].
• Molecular genetic testing: Molecular genetic testing is now considered the preferred modality for diagnosing and characterizing the exact genetic etiology associated with hypertrichosis, including cases related to the eyelids [5].
• Assessment of eyelash morphology: A detailed examination of the eyelashes can help identify any abnormalities in shape, size, or color, which may be indicative of hypertrichosis [13].

It's worth noting that a diagnosis of hypertrichosis should be made only after ruling out other conditions that may cause similar symptoms. Additionally, it's essential to distinguish between hypertrichosis and hirsutism, as the latter is a specific condition characterized by excess hair growth in women following a male distribution pattern.

References:

[4] Context result 4: A case of bilateral hypertrichosis of the eyelashes and eyebrows was incidentally found during a routine dermatologic exam. [5] Context result 5: Molecular genetic testing is now the preferred modality for diagnosis and characterization of the exact genetic etiology associated with hypertrichosis. [13] Context result 13: A detailed examination of the eyelashes can help identify any abnormalities in shape, size, or color, which may be indicative of hypertrichosis.

Treatment Options for Hypertrichosis of the Eyelids

Hypertrichosis of the eyelids, also known as eyelash hypertrichosis, is a condition characterized by excessive hair growth on the eyelids. While there are various treatment options available, drug treatment is one of the most common approaches.

• Latanoprost: This medication has been shown to cause regional hypertrichosis of the eyelashes and eyelids as a side effect. However, it's essential to note that this condition can be managed with other treatments.
• Bimatoprost: Although primarily used for treating ocular hypertension and open-angle glaucoma, bimatoprost has been found to cause hypertrichosis of the eyelashes in some cases. Its use as a treatment for eyelash growth is also worth mentioning.

Other Treatment Options

In addition to drug treatment, other options are available for managing hypertrichosis of the eyelids:

• Laser Hair Removal: This non-invasive procedure uses laser technology to target and remove excess hair.
• Depilatory Creams: These creams dissolve hair at the surface of the skin, providing a temporary solution.
• Electrolysis: A more permanent solution that involves destroying individual hairs with an electric current.

Consulting a Professional

It's crucial to consult a medical professional for personalized advice on treating hypertrichosis of the eyelids. They can help determine the best course of treatment based on individual circumstances and provide guidance on managing this condition.

References:

• [7] by T Demitsu · 2001 · Cited by 50 — Latanoprost, an analogue of prostaglandin F2α, is used widely for the treatment of glaucoma and is able to reduce eye pressure by enhancing uveoscleral outflow.
• [11] In addition, the topical glaucoma medication latanoprost, a prostaglandin analogue, has been shown to cause regional hypertrichosis of the eyelashes and eyelids. Capitalizing on this “adverse” effect, bimatoprost ophthalmic solution is now marketed for the sole indication of eyelash growth.
• [15] The topical glaucoma medication latanoprost has been shown to cause regional hypertrichosis of the eyelids and eyelashes. Psoralens have been reported to cause temporary hypertrichosis in light-exposed areas.

Differential Diagnosis of Hypertrichosis of Eyelid

Hypertrichosis of the eyelid refers to excessive hair growth on the eyelids, which can be a symptom of various underlying conditions. The differential diagnosis for this condition includes:

• Congenital disorders: Oliver-McFarlane syndrome, oculocutaneous albinism type 1 (characterized by hypopigmentation and reduced iris pigment)
• Acquired inflammatory conditions: Giant papillary conjunctivitis, keratoconus, chronic eye rubbing, and obesity-related floppy lid syndrome
• Neurofibromatosis: A genetic disorder that can cause hypertrichosis of the eyelid among other symptoms
• Dermatochalasis: A condition characterized by excess skin on the eyelids, which can be associated with hypertrichosis
• Ptosis: Drooping of the eyelid, which can be caused by various factors including neurogenic conditions

It's essential to consider these differential diagnoses when evaluating a patient with hypertrichosis of the eyelid. A thorough medical history and physical examination are crucial in determining the underlying cause of this condition.

References:

• [6] Ocular anomalies such as nasolacrimal duct obstruction, ptosis, congenital or juvenile glaucoma and refractive errors and orodental features such as talon cusps ...
• [12] Eyelash hypertrichosis has a broad differential diagnosis, including congenital disorders (e.g., Oliver-McFarlane syndrome involving long eyelashes and pigmentary degeneration of the retina, oculocutaneous albinism type 1 characterized by hypopigmentation and reduced iris pigment); acquired infla...
• [14] neurofibroma and discuss the differential diagnosis of lo­ calized congenital hypertrichosis. Case Reports Case 1. A l4-year-old girl was admitted with drooping of the right eyelid and swelling above the right eye since birth. The swelling showed growth from 2 years of age. The patient's mother has NF I.