Clinical Features and Current Therapeutic Approaches to Monilethrix: A Systematic Review

Monilethrix is a rare congenital hair disorder marked by fragile, beaded hair shafts caused by mutations in keratin or desmoglein 4 genes. A systematic review of 24 studies found that topical and oral minoxidil are the most effective treatments for this condition, whereas oral retinoids and other therapies have shown inconsistent results. The review highlights the need for further pediatric research and clinical studies to evaluate long-term treatment outcomes and to develop new therapeutic strategies for managing monilethrix.