Treatment of monilethrix with oral minoxidil.

Abstract

Monilethrix is an autosomal dominant genodermatosis characterized by hair fragility, keratosis pilaris, and pathognomonic beading of the hair shaft. Hair fragility may lead to hair breakage and the appearance of generalized hair loss. Oral minoxidil is a promising treatment for hair loss associated with monilethrix. When used in low doses it appears to be well tolerated. Based on observations in male and female pattern hair loss, it is likely that that long-term maintenance treatment will be required to prevent relapse of hair loss. Further studies are required to document safety and efficacy.