Poliosis is a rare medical condition characterized by the loss of pigment in the hair follicles. Derived from the Greek words "polios" meaning "gray" and "iosis" indicating a pathological condition, poliosis is often known as "poliosis circumscripta" or "poliosis circumscripta totalis" to denote specific patterns or complete discoloration of hair in affected areas. It commonly presents as a patch or streak of unpigmented or white hair on the scalp, eyebrows, eyelashes, or other areas of the body.
Poliosis can occur congenitally, meaning a person is born with the condition, or it may develop later in life due to various factors such as autoimmune diseases, genetic mutations, or as a side effect of certain medications. Researchers theorize that poliosis is primarily caused by disturbances in melanocyte function, the specialized cells responsible for producing melanin, the pigment that gives color to hair, skin, and eyes.
While the cosmetic impact of poliosis can vary depending on the extent and location of the depigmented hair, the condition itself is typically harmless and not associated with any other health concerns. However, poliosis may occasionally be an indicator of an underlying medical condition, such as vitiligo or alopecia areata, and further diagnostic investigation may be necessary in such cases.
Treatment options for poliosis are limited and primarily focused on managing the cosmetic aspect. Individuals with poliosis may choose to dye the affected hair, although this intervention is temporary and requires regular maintenance. Medical procedures such as laser-based pigment reconstitution therapy or hair transplantation may also be considered to restore the natural color of the hair.
