MonilethrixSymptoms, Doctors, Treatments, Advances & More
Learn About Monilethrix
Monilethrix is a condition that affects hair growth. Its most characteristic feature is that individual strands of hair have a beaded appearance like the beads of a necklace. The name monilethrix comes from the Latin word for necklace (monile) and the Greek word for hair (thrix). Noticeable when viewed under a microscope, the beaded appearance is due to periodic narrowing of the hair shaft. People with monilethrix also have sparse hair growth (hypotrichosis) and short, brittle hair that breaks easily.
Monilethrix is caused by mutations in one of several genes. Mutations in the KRT81 gene, the KRT83 gene, the KRT86 gene, or the DSG4 gene account for most cases of monilethrix. These genes provide instructions for making proteins that give structure and strength to strands of hair.
The prevalence of monilethrix is unknown.
Monilethrix can have multiple patterns of inheritance. When the condition is caused by a mutation in one of the keratin genes, it is inherited in an autosomal dominant pattern, which means one copy of the altered gene in each cell is sufficient to cause the disorder. In rare cases, the condition results from a new mutation in the gene and is not inherited.
Mariya Miteva is a Dermatologist practicing medicine in Miami, Florida. Dr. Miteva is rated as a Distinguished provider by MediFind in the treatment of Monilethrix. She is also highly rated in 17 other conditions, according to our data. Her clinical expertise encompasses Autosomal Recessive Hypotrichosis, Graham-Little-Piccardi-Lassueur Syndrome, Dissecting Cellulitis of the Scalp, and Pili Torti. Dr. Miteva is currently accepting new patients.
Antonella Tosti is a Dermatologist practicing medicine in Miami Beach, Florida. Dr. Tosti is rated as a Distinguished provider by MediFind in the treatment of Monilethrix. She is also highly rated in 31 other conditions, according to our data. Her clinical expertise encompasses Autosomal Recessive Hypotrichosis, Alopecia Areata, Splinter Hemorrhages, and Ringworm. Dr. Tosti is currently accepting new patients.
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Gaurav Singh is a Dermatologist practicing medicine in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. He has been practicing medicine for over 10 years. Dr. Singh is rated as a Distinguished provider by MediFind in the treatment of Monilethrix. He is also highly rated in 5 other conditions, according to our data. His clinical expertise encompasses Monilethrix, Pili Torti, Trichorrhexis Nodosa, and Basal Cell Skin Cancer.
Published Date: March 01, 2012
Published By: National Institutes of Health