Hair-Thread Tourniquet Syndrome: A Case Report And Review Of Treatment
January 2014
in “
Dermatology Online Journal
”
TLDR Hair-thread tourniquet syndrome needs more awareness and discussion in dermatology.
Hair-thread tourniquet syndrome (HTTS) was a condition where hair or thread constricted an appendage, leading to circulation obstruction and potential ischemia. It primarily affected infants and young children, with toes and genitals being the most common sites. Diagnosis was challenging due to the subtlety of symptoms and potential misdiagnosis as infection or trauma. Treatment involved prompt removal of the constricting fiber, sometimes requiring surgical intervention. Early recognition and treatment were crucial to prevent severe outcomes like gangrene or autoamputation. Education on prevention, such as checking clothing for stray hairs, was recommended to avoid recurrence.