| Pili multigemini | |
|---|---|
| Other names | Pili gemini[1] |
 | |
| An extracted pilus multigeminus with three distinct hairs growing from the same source. | |
| Specialty | Dermatology |
Pili multigemini, also known as "compound hairs,"[2] is a malformation characterized by the presence of bifurcated or multiple dividedhair matrices andpapillae, giving rise to the formation of multiple hair shafts within the individualfollicles.[3][4]
The name describes a condition where several separatehair fibers bunch together and emerge from the skin through a single hair canal. Pathology shows that deep in theskin several dermal papillae are closely situated with each producing a fiber, but these separatehair follicle bulbs combine into one hair canal towards the skin surface.Folliculitis can sometimes be associated with this condition.[2]
Electrolysis will permanently remove pili multigemini.Depilating laser treatment has been suggested to improve symptomatic pili multigemini.[5]
Pili multigemini hair follicles, also called 'compound hairs', are considered rare although there have been no studies to define the actual frequency in the general population, it is believed to be more common in men's beards and children's scalps.
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