• Hair color changes secondary to disease
• Hair color changes secondary to disease references

Hair color changes secondary to disease

There are many instances where a systemic disease can indirectly affect hair color. The mechanisms by which hair color changes occur in such diseases has not been investigated in any detail although various suggestions have been made.

Infection with HIV and subsequent development of AIDS can sometimes involve changes in hair color. This may be brought about perhaps though indirect effects of the immune system in hair follicle activity, but more likely the significant alterations in hormone levels, and nutritional deficiencies as progressive wasting occurs (effectively Kwashiorker), are the more likely causes.

Several studies have been conducted on the possible association of premature gray hair development and low bone mineral density (osteoporosis). The jury is still out on whether there is a true association. However, it is possible that low hormone levels associated with low bone density also affect melanocyte cell pigment producing activity. It is also possible that the melanocyte cells rely upon the activity of genes that are expressed in both bone mineral deposition and pigment production. If these genes are defective in some way, it may result in low bone mineral density and low pigment production.

Some research reports suggest an association between coronary artery disease and gray hair development. Autoimmune diseases that do not normally directly affect the skin, such as hypothyroidism, hyperthyroidism, and Addison's pernicious anemia have been associated with gray hair development. Isolated case reports of hair color changes in association with other diseases and syndromes have also been reported.

Some genetic syndromes may result in premature gray hair development. See; syndrome induced premature gray hair for details.

Hair color changes secondary to disease references

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