Trichoscopy in Hair Shaft Disorders

The document from 2018 highlights the use of trichoscopy as a noninvasive diagnostic tool for hair shaft disorders, which has become more practical than light microscopy in dermatology. Trichoscopy allows for the examination of hair structure and size without the need for hair extraction. The article classifies hair shaft abnormalities detectable by trichoscopy, such as fractures, narrowings, and twists, and describes diseases like monilethrix and trichorrhexis nodosa, including their trichoscopic features. It also discusses trichorrhexis invaginata, which is indicative of Netherton syndrome, and pili torti, a condition with twisted hair shafts. Additionally, the document covers other disorders like pili annulati, woolly hair, trichothiodystrophy, and ectodermal dysplasias, all of which have distinct trichoscopic patterns. The effectiveness of trichoscopy in diagnosing these conditions without hair removal is emphasized, showcasing its importance in the field of dermatology.