Don't Judge When the Tresses Fall: Understanding Plica Polonica

The article discusses plica polonica, a rare condition characterized by matted hair, presenting two cases: a 36-year-old woman with hair loss after azathioprine treatment and a 65-year-old woman with acute telogen effluvium post-viral fever. Both cases involved hair matting and were treated with topical minoxidil, resulting in hair regrowth. The condition, historically prevalent in 19th-century Poland, can be caused by factors like harsh hair care products, neglect, and certain medications. The authors emphasize that patients with matted hair should not be judged as mentally unstable and urge careful diagnosis to avoid mislabeling. Treatment involves cutting affected hair and preventive measures like gentle hair care.