Madhya Pradesh

• 15 Mar 2025

Werewolf Syndrome

Why in News? 

A teenager suffering from "werewolf syndrome" from Madhya Pradesh has created a Guinness World Record for the hairiest face. 

Key Points  

• Werewolf Syndrome: 
  • Werewolf syndrome, also known as hypertrichosis , is an extremely rare genetic condition, with only 50 cases reported worldwide so far.  
  • The condition causes excessive hair growth on certain parts of the body, especially the face. 
  • Types: 
    • Congenital Hypertrichosis: 
      • It is present from birth and is usually due to genetic causes. 
      • Scientists believe this is due to the reactivation of ancient dormant genes that were responsible for excessive body hair in early human ancestors. 
      • In this condition, a person may have excessive hair all over the body or on some specific parts. 
    • Acquired Hypertrichosis 
      • It develops after birth and is associated with external or internal causes. 
      • Possible reasons for this include: 
      •  Certain medications, such as hair growth stimulants, androgenic steroids, and immunosuppressant drugs , can aggravate hypertrichosis. 
      • Certain cancer types and genetic variations may be linked to this condition. 
      • Certain skin infections and autoimmune diseases are also known to cause this condition. 
      • Nutritional deficiencies  
      • Eating Disorders