A Clinical Review of Trichorrhexis Nodosa

Abstract

Trichorrhexis nodosa is the most common form of hair breakage with a diagnostic splayed paint brush bristle appearance under light microscopy. It is classified into congenital and four acquired forms. Defects in the hair cuticle and hair keratin have recently been clarified better with more refined instrumentation. The congenital form can be seen in several childhood diseases and syndromes. There are four types of acquired TN that leave hair less protected from environmental irritants. The form with proximal damage in African Americans is by far the most frequent type. Treatment for trichorrhexis nodosa involves avoiding factors that contribute to hair breakage, such as minimizing heat styling and using gentle hair care products. The FDA may initiate sanctions on the use of formaldehyde and related chemicals presently used in hair straightening and keratin hair treatments. This would markedly alter the status quo in treatment for this condition.