Loose anagen syndrome

Overview:

Loose anagen syndrome is a hair condition where the hairs are detached and shed from the scalp. This can be spontaneous or passed down genetically. It is mostly described in light-haired children who have easily dislodgeable hair. Children, especially young girls with light hair, are most susceptible to this condition. Patients usually experience thinning hair around their whole scalp or at the back of their head as a result of loose anagan syndrome. In some cases, it can also affect patient's eyebrows.

Causes:

The condition is caused by a mutation in the gene that codes for the hair follicle protein keratin 7. This protein is an important part of the inner root sheet and helps to keep the hair shaft anchored to the scalp. When there is a mutation in this gene, the hair shafts are not as well anchored and can easily fall out.

Symptoms:

There are several symptoms associated with loose anagen syndrome. Patients may experience thinning hair, hair loss, and easily dislodgeable hair. The condition can also cause the eyebrows to thin.

Diagnosis:

There are several symptoms associated with loose anagen syndrome. Patients may experience thinning hair, hair loss, and easily dislodgeable hair. The condition can also cause the eyebrows to thin.

Treatment:

Treatment is typically not necessary with loose anagen syndrome as the condition improves with age and is self limited.