Loose Anagen Syndrome: A Retrospective Chart Review of 37 Cases
July 2016
in “
Pediatric Dermatology
”
TLDR Loose Anagen Syndrome is more common in females and may be inherited, often confused with other hair disorders, and lacks evidence for biotin treatment effectiveness.
The retrospective chart review of 37 cases at the Children's Hospital of Philadelphia over a 10-year period investigated Loose Anagen Syndrome (LAS), finding it more prevalent in females but present across all hair colors and skin types. Diagnosis relies on history, microscopic examination, and specific hair features, with LAS often mistaken for other hair disorders but distinguishable through clinical and trichographic analysis. The study highlighted a common association with atopic diseases and a possible autosomal inheritance pattern due to family history of hair disorders. Limitations of the study included its retrospective nature and insufficient data on the progression or improvement of LAS. Biotin supplementation was frequently recommended, despite a lack of scientific evidence for its efficacy in hair disorders. The study suggests the need for further research into LAS's genetic basis and treatment options.
