Plica neuropathica
| Plica neuropathica | |
|---|---|
| Other names | Plica polonica, bird's nest hair, felted hair, acute hair matting. |
| Specialty | Dermatology |
Plica neuropathica, also known as felted hair, is a curling, looping, intertwisting, and felting or matting of the hair in localized areas of the scalp.[1]: 768
Signs and symptoms
Plica neuropathica appears as a compact mass of scalp hair that is twisted and irreversibly knotted, forming an impenetrable, firm to hard mass of keratin that is bonded together by exudates and debris.[2]
Causes
It is unknown exactly how plica neuropathica develops. Nonetheless, it has been linked to the longitudinal splitting or weathering of the hair shaft as a result of severe friction, repeated use of harsh shampoos and cleansers, and/or long hair neglected or maintained poorly.[3] A few risk factors for this ailment that have been documented include the use of shampoos containing cationic detergents, secondary scalp infections, or infestations of the scalp.[4]
Treatment
The matted hair must be trimmed in order to treat plica neuropathica. Organic solvents can be used for manual separation in the early stages. Preventive hair care comprises routine hair washing with mild shampoos or cleansers, light combing and oiling to prevent matting, and routine hair cutting.[3]
References
- ISBN 0-7216-2921-0.
- PMID 21407871. Retrieved 2024-03-25.
- ^ PMC 4513426.
- PMC 3512374.
Further reading
- Dogra, Sunil; Kanwar, Amrinder Jit (2004). "Plica Neuropathica: A Mystery". Pediatric Dermatology. 21 (4). Wiley: 477–478. ISSN 0736-8046.
- Monteiro, Ana Filipe; Lencastre, André (2019). "Whole-Scalp Cobblestone Plica Neuropathica with Alopecia". Skin Appendage Disorders. 5 (6): 390–392. PMID 31799270.