Short Anagen Syndrome

Overview

Short anagen syndrome is a condition that affects the hair growth cycle. People with short anagen syndrome have a short hair growth phase, which results in short hair. The hair shaft is otherwise normal, apart from its length. The density of the hair is normal, the hairs are not fragile, and they do not break easily. In short anagen syndrome, the duration of anagen growth phase may only be 1 or 2 years compared to a normal length of 4 to 7 years. It typically presents in childhood, with parents reporting that their child ‘can't grow their hair long’ or has ‘never had a haircut’. The causes of short anagen syndrome are unknown. No genetic abnormality has been found to date. Parents often report their child ‘can't grow their hair long’ or has ‘never had a haircut’. Diagnosis is made clinical history and examination by a dermatologist.  Treatment for short anagen syndrome includes topical or oral minoxidil. In contrast to loose anagen syndrome, this condition does not typically improve with age.

.References

https://dermnetnz.org/topics/short-anagen-syndrome