Can Washing Socks Without Flipping Inside Out Cause Hair Tourniquet Syndrome? A Claim With Two Case Reports

The document discusses Hair Tourniquet Syndrome (HTS), a rare condition where hair or thread wraps tightly around an appendage, potentially leading to strangulation or amputation. The authors present two case reports of infants with HTS involving their toes, where hair strands were found in their socks. They hypothesize that not turning baby socks inside out before washing them could contribute to HTS, as this may allow hair to accumulate inside the socks. They suggest that mothers should be informed about HTS and the simple preventive measure of turning socks inside out before washing. The document also reviews other potential causes of HTS, the importance of considering child abuse in the differential diagnosis, and the clinical approach to diagnosis and treatment. The authors emphasize the need for a thorough examination of a crying child, including checking for HTS. The document concludes by recommending that healthcare providers inform mothers about HTS and the preventive measure of turning socks inside out before washing to reduce the risk.