Hypertrichosis in children after immobilization with plaster of Paris

ABSTRACT
Background: Humans have three different types of hair. Hair growth is a complex process that requires a rich supply of oxygen and nutrients provided by the capillaries that supply the active base of the hair.
Objective: To present abnormal growth of hair post prolong immobilization with plaster of Paris.
Material and methods: This report is a case series study carried out in Mosul teaching hospital, during the period between (30 Jan 1999 - 30 Sep 2011). The total number of patients treated for developmental dysplasia of the hip (DDH) were 213 patients treated by open reduction), immobilized by plaster of Paris for a period (8 - 16 weeks). Age ranged between (12-48 months) with mean (24.6 months). Females were 164 (77%) and 49 (23%) were males.
Results: Patients followed post operatively, abnormal hair growth at the lower limbs was noticed, and hair changes were disappeared completely within 4-6 months.
Conclusion: Hypertrichosis is transient, physicians should be aware of its benign nature as it relates to cast immobilization.
Keywords: Hypertrichosis, lower limbs, DDH, plaster of Paris.