Wendi E. Wohltmann, MD

The Diagnosis: Condyloma Latum

A punch biopsy of the perianal mass revealed epidermal acanthosis with elongated slender rete ridges, scattered intraepidermal neutrophils, and a dense dermal inflammatory infiltrate (Figure, A) with a prominent plasma cell component (Figure, B). A treponemal immunohistochemical stain revealed numerous coiled spirochetes concentrated in the lower epidermis (Figure, C). Serologic test results including rapid plasma reagin (titer 1:1024) and Treponema pallidum antibody were reactive, confirming the diagnosis of secondary syphilis with condyloma latum. The patient was treated with intramuscular penicillin G with resolution of the lesion 2 weeks later.

Syphilis, a sexually transmitted infection caused by the spirochete T pallidum, reached historically low rates in the United States in the early 2000s due to the widespread use of penicillin and effective public health efforts.1 However, the rates of primary and secondary syphilis infections recently have markedly increased, resulting in the current epidemic of syphilis in the United States and Europe.^1,2 Its wide variety of clinical and histopathologic manifestations make recognition challenging and lend it the moniker “the great imitator.”

Secondary syphilis results from the systemic spread of T pallidum and classically is characterized by the triad of a skin rash that frequently involves the palms and soles, mucosal ulceration such as condyloma latum, and lymphadenopathy.^2,3 However, condyloma latum may represent the only manifestation of secondary syphilis in a subset of patients,⁴ as observed in our patient.

In the 2 months prior to diagnosis, our patient was evaluated at multiple emergency departments and primary care clinics, receiving diagnoses of condyloma acuminatum, genital herpes simplex virus, hemorrhoids, and suspicion for malignancy—entities that comprise the differential diagnosis for condyloma latum.^2,5 Despite some degree of overlap in patient populations, risk factors, and presentations between these diagnostic considerations, recognition of certain clinical features, in addition to histopathologic evaluation, may facilitate navigation of this differential diagnosis.

Primary and secondary syphilis infections have been predominantly observed in men, mostly men who have sex with men and/or those who are infected with HIV.¹ Condyloma acuminata, genital herpes simplex virus, and chancroid also are seen in younger individuals, more commonly in those with multiple sexual partners, but show a more even gender distribution and are not restricted to those partaking in anal intercourse. The clinical presentation of condyloma latum can be differentiated by its painless, flat, smooth, and commonly hypopigmented appearance, often with associated surface erosion and a gray exudate, in contrast to condyloma acuminatum, which typically presents as nontender, flesh-colored or hyperpigmented, exophytic papules that may coalesce into plaques.^2,3,6 Genital herpes simplex virus infection presents with multiple small papulovesicular lesions with ulceration, most commonly on the tip or shaft of the penis, though perianal lesions may be seen in men who have sex with men.⁷ Similarly, chancroid presents with painful necrotizing genital ulcers most commonly on the penis, though perianal lesions also may be seen.8 Hemorrhoids classically are seen in middle-aged adults with a history of constipation, present with rectal bleeding, and may be associated with pain in the setting of thrombosis or ulceration.⁹ Finally, perianal squamous cell carcinoma primarily occurs in older adults, typically in the sixth decade of life. Verrucous carcinoma most commonly arises in the oropharynx or anogenital region in sites of chronic irritation and presents as a slow-growing exophytic mass. Classic squamous cell carcinoma most commonly occurs in association with human papillomavirus infection and presents with scaly erythematous papules or plaques.¹⁰

Our case highlighted the clinical difficulty in recognizing condyloma latum, as this lesion remained undiagnosed for 2 months, and our patient presumptively was treated for multiple perianal pathologies prior to a biopsy being performed. Due to the clinical similarity of various perianal lesions, the diagnosis of condyloma latum should be considered, and serologic studies should be performed in fitting clinical contexts, especially in light of recently rising rates of syphilis infection.^1,2

The Diagnosis: Condyloma Latum

A punch biopsy of the perianal mass revealed epidermal acanthosis with elongated slender rete ridges, scattered intraepidermal neutrophils, and a dense dermal inflammatory infiltrate (Figure, A) with a prominent plasma cell component (Figure, B). A treponemal immunohistochemical stain revealed numerous coiled spirochetes concentrated in the lower epidermis (Figure, C). Serologic test results including rapid plasma reagin (titer 1:1024) and Treponema pallidum antibody were reactive, confirming the diagnosis of secondary syphilis with condyloma latum. The patient was treated with intramuscular penicillin G with resolution of the lesion 2 weeks later.

Syphilis, a sexually transmitted infection caused by the spirochete T pallidum, reached historically low rates in the United States in the early 2000s due to the widespread use of penicillin and effective public health efforts.1 However, the rates of primary and secondary syphilis infections recently have markedly increased, resulting in the current epidemic of syphilis in the United States and Europe.^1,2 Its wide variety of clinical and histopathologic manifestations make recognition challenging and lend it the moniker “the great imitator.”

Secondary syphilis results from the systemic spread of T pallidum and classically is characterized by the triad of a skin rash that frequently involves the palms and soles, mucosal ulceration such as condyloma latum, and lymphadenopathy.^2,3 However, condyloma latum may represent the only manifestation of secondary syphilis in a subset of patients,⁴ as observed in our patient.

In the 2 months prior to diagnosis, our patient was evaluated at multiple emergency departments and primary care clinics, receiving diagnoses of condyloma acuminatum, genital herpes simplex virus, hemorrhoids, and suspicion for malignancy—entities that comprise the differential diagnosis for condyloma latum.^2,5 Despite some degree of overlap in patient populations, risk factors, and presentations between these diagnostic considerations, recognition of certain clinical features, in addition to histopathologic evaluation, may facilitate navigation of this differential diagnosis.

Primary and secondary syphilis infections have been predominantly observed in men, mostly men who have sex with men and/or those who are infected with HIV.¹ Condyloma acuminata, genital herpes simplex virus, and chancroid also are seen in younger individuals, more commonly in those with multiple sexual partners, but show a more even gender distribution and are not restricted to those partaking in anal intercourse. The clinical presentation of condyloma latum can be differentiated by its painless, flat, smooth, and commonly hypopigmented appearance, often with associated surface erosion and a gray exudate, in contrast to condyloma acuminatum, which typically presents as nontender, flesh-colored or hyperpigmented, exophytic papules that may coalesce into plaques.^2,3,6 Genital herpes simplex virus infection presents with multiple small papulovesicular lesions with ulceration, most commonly on the tip or shaft of the penis, though perianal lesions may be seen in men who have sex with men.⁷ Similarly, chancroid presents with painful necrotizing genital ulcers most commonly on the penis, though perianal lesions also may be seen.8 Hemorrhoids classically are seen in middle-aged adults with a history of constipation, present with rectal bleeding, and may be associated with pain in the setting of thrombosis or ulceration.⁹ Finally, perianal squamous cell carcinoma primarily occurs in older adults, typically in the sixth decade of life. Verrucous carcinoma most commonly arises in the oropharynx or anogenital region in sites of chronic irritation and presents as a slow-growing exophytic mass. Classic squamous cell carcinoma most commonly occurs in association with human papillomavirus infection and presents with scaly erythematous papules or plaques.¹⁰

Our case highlighted the clinical difficulty in recognizing condyloma latum, as this lesion remained undiagnosed for 2 months, and our patient presumptively was treated for multiple perianal pathologies prior to a biopsy being performed. Due to the clinical similarity of various perianal lesions, the diagnosis of condyloma latum should be considered, and serologic studies should be performed in fitting clinical contexts, especially in light of recently rising rates of syphilis infection.^1,2

The Diagnosis: Condyloma Latum

A punch biopsy of the perianal mass revealed epidermal acanthosis with elongated slender rete ridges, scattered intraepidermal neutrophils, and a dense dermal inflammatory infiltrate (Figure, A) with a prominent plasma cell component (Figure, B). A treponemal immunohistochemical stain revealed numerous coiled spirochetes concentrated in the lower epidermis (Figure, C). Serologic test results including rapid plasma reagin (titer 1:1024) and Treponema pallidum antibody were reactive, confirming the diagnosis of secondary syphilis with condyloma latum. The patient was treated with intramuscular penicillin G with resolution of the lesion 2 weeks later.

Syphilis, a sexually transmitted infection caused by the spirochete T pallidum, reached historically low rates in the United States in the early 2000s due to the widespread use of penicillin and effective public health efforts.1 However, the rates of primary and secondary syphilis infections recently have markedly increased, resulting in the current epidemic of syphilis in the United States and Europe.^1,2 Its wide variety of clinical and histopathologic manifestations make recognition challenging and lend it the moniker “the great imitator.”

Secondary syphilis results from the systemic spread of T pallidum and classically is characterized by the triad of a skin rash that frequently involves the palms and soles, mucosal ulceration such as condyloma latum, and lymphadenopathy.^2,3 However, condyloma latum may represent the only manifestation of secondary syphilis in a subset of patients,⁴ as observed in our patient.

In the 2 months prior to diagnosis, our patient was evaluated at multiple emergency departments and primary care clinics, receiving diagnoses of condyloma acuminatum, genital herpes simplex virus, hemorrhoids, and suspicion for malignancy—entities that comprise the differential diagnosis for condyloma latum.^2,5 Despite some degree of overlap in patient populations, risk factors, and presentations between these diagnostic considerations, recognition of certain clinical features, in addition to histopathologic evaluation, may facilitate navigation of this differential diagnosis.

Primary and secondary syphilis infections have been predominantly observed in men, mostly men who have sex with men and/or those who are infected with HIV.¹ Condyloma acuminata, genital herpes simplex virus, and chancroid also are seen in younger individuals, more commonly in those with multiple sexual partners, but show a more even gender distribution and are not restricted to those partaking in anal intercourse. The clinical presentation of condyloma latum can be differentiated by its painless, flat, smooth, and commonly hypopigmented appearance, often with associated surface erosion and a gray exudate, in contrast to condyloma acuminatum, which typically presents as nontender, flesh-colored or hyperpigmented, exophytic papules that may coalesce into plaques.^2,3,6 Genital herpes simplex virus infection presents with multiple small papulovesicular lesions with ulceration, most commonly on the tip or shaft of the penis, though perianal lesions may be seen in men who have sex with men.⁷ Similarly, chancroid presents with painful necrotizing genital ulcers most commonly on the penis, though perianal lesions also may be seen.8 Hemorrhoids classically are seen in middle-aged adults with a history of constipation, present with rectal bleeding, and may be associated with pain in the setting of thrombosis or ulceration.⁹ Finally, perianal squamous cell carcinoma primarily occurs in older adults, typically in the sixth decade of life. Verrucous carcinoma most commonly arises in the oropharynx or anogenital region in sites of chronic irritation and presents as a slow-growing exophytic mass. Classic squamous cell carcinoma most commonly occurs in association with human papillomavirus infection and presents with scaly erythematous papules or plaques.¹⁰

Our case highlighted the clinical difficulty in recognizing condyloma latum, as this lesion remained undiagnosed for 2 months, and our patient presumptively was treated for multiple perianal pathologies prior to a biopsy being performed. Due to the clinical similarity of various perianal lesions, the diagnosis of condyloma latum should be considered, and serologic studies should be performed in fitting clinical contexts, especially in light of recently rising rates of syphilis infection.^1,2

The Diagnosis: Dermatomyofibroma

Dermatomyofibroma is an uncommon, benign, cutaneous mesenchymal neoplasm composed of fibroblasts and myofibroblasts.^1-3 This skin tumor was first described in 1991 by Hugel⁴ in the German literature as plaquelike fibromatosis. Pediatric dermatomyofibromas are exceedingly rare, with pediatric patients ranging in age from infants to teenagers.¹

Clinically, dermatomyofibromas appear as long-standing, isolated, ill-demarcated, flesh-colored, slightly hyperpigmented or erythematous nodules or plaques that may be raised or indurated.¹ Dermatomyofibromas may present with constant mild pain or pruritus, though in most cases the lesions are asymptomatic.^1,3 The clinical presentation of dermatomyofibroma has a few distinct differences in children compared to adults. In adulthood, dermatomyofibroma has a strong female predominance and most commonly is located on the shoulder and adjacent upper body regions, including the axilla, neck, upper arm, and upper trunk.^1-3 In childhood, the majority of dermatomyofibromas occur in young boys and usually are located on the neck with other upper body regions occurring less frequently.^1,2 A shared characteristic includes the tendency for dermatomyofibromas to have an initial period of enlargement followed by stabilization or slow growth.¹ Reported pediatric lesions have ranged in size from 4 to 60 mm with an average size of 14.9 mm (median, 12 mm).²

The diagnosis of dermatomyofibroma is based on histopathologic features in addition to clinical presentation. Histology from punch biopsy usually reveals a noninvasive dermal proliferation of bland, uniform, slender spindle cells oriented parallel to the overlying epidermis with increased and fragmented elastic fibers.^1,3 Infiltration into the mid or deep dermis is common. The adnexal structures usually are spared; the stroma contains collagen and increased small blood vessels; and there typically is no inflammatory infiltrate, except for occasional scattered mast cells.² Cytologically, the monomorphic spindleshaped tumor cells have an ill-defined, pale, eosinophilic cytoplasm and nuclei that are elongated with tapered edges.³ Dermatomyofibroma has a variable immunohistochemical profile, as it may stain focally positive for CD34 or smooth muscle actin, with occasional staining of factor XIIIa, desmin, calponin, or vimentin.^1-3 Normal to increased levels of often fragmented elastic fibers is a helpful clue in distinguishing dermatomyofibroma from dermatofibroma, hypertrophic scar, dermatofibrosarcoma protuberans, and pilar leiomyoma, in which elastic fibers typically are reduced.³ Differential diagnoses of mesenchymal tumors in children include desmoid fibromatosis, connective tissue nevus, myofibromatosis, and smooth muscle hamartoma.¹

A punch biopsy with clinical observation and followup is recommended for the management of lesions in cosmetically sensitive areas or in very young children who may not tolerate surgery. In symptomatic or cosmetically unappealing cases of dermatomyofibroma, simple surgical excision remains a viable treatment option. Recurrence is uncommon, even if only partially excised, and no instances of metastasis have been reported.^1-5

Dermatomyofibromas may be mistaken for several other entities both benign and malignant. For example, the benign dermatofibroma is the second most common fibrohistiocytic tumor of the skin and presents as a firm, nontender, minimally elevated to dome-shaped papule that usually measures less than or equal to 1 cm in diameter with or without overlying skin changes.^5,6 It primarily is seen in adults with a slight female predominance and favors the lower extremities.⁵ Patients usually are asymptomatic but often report a history of local trauma at the lesion site.⁶ Histologically, dermatofibroma is characterized by a nodular dermal proliferation of spindleshaped fibrous cells and histiocytes in a storiform pattern (Figure 1).⁶ Epidermal induction with acanthosis overlying the tumor often is found with occasional basilar hyperpigmentation.⁵ Dermatofibroma also characteristically has trapped collagen (“collagen balls”) seen at the periphery.^5,6

Piloleiomyomas are benign smooth muscle tumors arising from arrector pili muscles that may be solitary or multiple.⁵ Clinically, they typically present as firm, reddish-brown to flesh-colored papules or nodules that develop more commonly in adulthood.^5,7 Piloleiomyomas favor the extremities and trunk, particularly the shoulder, and can be associated with spontaneous or induced pain. Histologically, piloleiomyomas are well circumscribed and centered within the reticular dermis situated closely to hair follicles (Figure 2).⁵ They are composed of numerous interlacing fascicles or whorls of smooth muscle cells with abundant eosinophilic cytoplasm and blunt-ended, cigar-shaped nuclei.^5,7

Solitary cutaneous myofibroma is a benign fibrous tumor found in adolescents and adults and is the counterpart to infantile myofibromatosis.⁸ Clinically, myofibromas typically present as painless, slow-growing, firm nodules with an occasional bluish hue. Histologically, solitary cutaneous myofibromas appear in a biphasic pattern, with hemangiopericytomatous components as well as spindle cells arranged in short bundles and fascicles resembling leiomyoma (Figure 3). The spindle cells also have abundant eosinophilic cytoplasm with short plump nuclei; the random, irregularly intersecting angles can be used to help differentiate myofibromas from smooth muscle lesions.⁸ Solitary cutaneous myofibroma is in the differential diagnosis for dermatomyofibroma because of their shared myofibroblastic nature.⁹

Dermatofibrosarcoma protuberans (DFSP) is an uncommon, locally invasive sarcoma with a high recurrence rate that favors young to middle-aged adults, with rare childhood onset reported.^5,10,11 Clinically, DFSP typically presents as an asymptomatic, slow-growing, firm, flesh-colored, indurated plaque that develops into a violaceous to reddish-brown nodule.⁵ The atrophic variant of DFSP is characterized by a nonprotuberant lesion and can be especially difficult to distinguish from other entities such as dermatomyofibroma.¹¹ The majority of DFSP lesions occur on the trunk, particularly in the shoulder or pelvic region.⁵ Histologically, early plaque lesions are comprised of monomorphic spindle cells arranged in long fascicles (parallel to the skin surface), infiltrating adnexal structures, and subcutaneous adipocytes in a multilayered honeycomb pattern; the spindle cells of late nodular lesions are arranged in short fascicles in a matted or storiform pattern (Figure 4).^5,10 Early stages of DFSP as well as variations in childhood-onset DFSP can easily be misdiagnosed and incompletely excised.⁵

The Diagnosis: Dermatomyofibroma

Dermatomyofibroma is an uncommon, benign, cutaneous mesenchymal neoplasm composed of fibroblasts and myofibroblasts.^1-3 This skin tumor was first described in 1991 by Hugel⁴ in the German literature as plaquelike fibromatosis. Pediatric dermatomyofibromas are exceedingly rare, with pediatric patients ranging in age from infants to teenagers.¹

Clinically, dermatomyofibromas appear as long-standing, isolated, ill-demarcated, flesh-colored, slightly hyperpigmented or erythematous nodules or plaques that may be raised or indurated.¹ Dermatomyofibromas may present with constant mild pain or pruritus, though in most cases the lesions are asymptomatic.^1,3 The clinical presentation of dermatomyofibroma has a few distinct differences in children compared to adults. In adulthood, dermatomyofibroma has a strong female predominance and most commonly is located on the shoulder and adjacent upper body regions, including the axilla, neck, upper arm, and upper trunk.^1-3 In childhood, the majority of dermatomyofibromas occur in young boys and usually are located on the neck with other upper body regions occurring less frequently.^1,2 A shared characteristic includes the tendency for dermatomyofibromas to have an initial period of enlargement followed by stabilization or slow growth.¹ Reported pediatric lesions have ranged in size from 4 to 60 mm with an average size of 14.9 mm (median, 12 mm).²

The diagnosis of dermatomyofibroma is based on histopathologic features in addition to clinical presentation. Histology from punch biopsy usually reveals a noninvasive dermal proliferation of bland, uniform, slender spindle cells oriented parallel to the overlying epidermis with increased and fragmented elastic fibers.^1,3 Infiltration into the mid or deep dermis is common. The adnexal structures usually are spared; the stroma contains collagen and increased small blood vessels; and there typically is no inflammatory infiltrate, except for occasional scattered mast cells.² Cytologically, the monomorphic spindleshaped tumor cells have an ill-defined, pale, eosinophilic cytoplasm and nuclei that are elongated with tapered edges.³ Dermatomyofibroma has a variable immunohistochemical profile, as it may stain focally positive for CD34 or smooth muscle actin, with occasional staining of factor XIIIa, desmin, calponin, or vimentin.^1-3 Normal to increased levels of often fragmented elastic fibers is a helpful clue in distinguishing dermatomyofibroma from dermatofibroma, hypertrophic scar, dermatofibrosarcoma protuberans, and pilar leiomyoma, in which elastic fibers typically are reduced.³ Differential diagnoses of mesenchymal tumors in children include desmoid fibromatosis, connective tissue nevus, myofibromatosis, and smooth muscle hamartoma.¹

A punch biopsy with clinical observation and followup is recommended for the management of lesions in cosmetically sensitive areas or in very young children who may not tolerate surgery. In symptomatic or cosmetically unappealing cases of dermatomyofibroma, simple surgical excision remains a viable treatment option. Recurrence is uncommon, even if only partially excised, and no instances of metastasis have been reported.^1-5

Dermatomyofibromas may be mistaken for several other entities both benign and malignant. For example, the benign dermatofibroma is the second most common fibrohistiocytic tumor of the skin and presents as a firm, nontender, minimally elevated to dome-shaped papule that usually measures less than or equal to 1 cm in diameter with or without overlying skin changes.^5,6 It primarily is seen in adults with a slight female predominance and favors the lower extremities.⁵ Patients usually are asymptomatic but often report a history of local trauma at the lesion site.⁶ Histologically, dermatofibroma is characterized by a nodular dermal proliferation of spindleshaped fibrous cells and histiocytes in a storiform pattern (Figure 1).⁶ Epidermal induction with acanthosis overlying the tumor often is found with occasional basilar hyperpigmentation.⁵ Dermatofibroma also characteristically has trapped collagen (“collagen balls”) seen at the periphery.^5,6

Piloleiomyomas are benign smooth muscle tumors arising from arrector pili muscles that may be solitary or multiple.⁵ Clinically, they typically present as firm, reddish-brown to flesh-colored papules or nodules that develop more commonly in adulthood.^5,7 Piloleiomyomas favor the extremities and trunk, particularly the shoulder, and can be associated with spontaneous or induced pain. Histologically, piloleiomyomas are well circumscribed and centered within the reticular dermis situated closely to hair follicles (Figure 2).⁵ They are composed of numerous interlacing fascicles or whorls of smooth muscle cells with abundant eosinophilic cytoplasm and blunt-ended, cigar-shaped nuclei.^5,7

Solitary cutaneous myofibroma is a benign fibrous tumor found in adolescents and adults and is the counterpart to infantile myofibromatosis.⁸ Clinically, myofibromas typically present as painless, slow-growing, firm nodules with an occasional bluish hue. Histologically, solitary cutaneous myofibromas appear in a biphasic pattern, with hemangiopericytomatous components as well as spindle cells arranged in short bundles and fascicles resembling leiomyoma (Figure 3). The spindle cells also have abundant eosinophilic cytoplasm with short plump nuclei; the random, irregularly intersecting angles can be used to help differentiate myofibromas from smooth muscle lesions.⁸ Solitary cutaneous myofibroma is in the differential diagnosis for dermatomyofibroma because of their shared myofibroblastic nature.⁹

Dermatofibrosarcoma protuberans (DFSP) is an uncommon, locally invasive sarcoma with a high recurrence rate that favors young to middle-aged adults, with rare childhood onset reported.^5,10,11 Clinically, DFSP typically presents as an asymptomatic, slow-growing, firm, flesh-colored, indurated plaque that develops into a violaceous to reddish-brown nodule.⁵ The atrophic variant of DFSP is characterized by a nonprotuberant lesion and can be especially difficult to distinguish from other entities such as dermatomyofibroma.¹¹ The majority of DFSP lesions occur on the trunk, particularly in the shoulder or pelvic region.⁵ Histologically, early plaque lesions are comprised of monomorphic spindle cells arranged in long fascicles (parallel to the skin surface), infiltrating adnexal structures, and subcutaneous adipocytes in a multilayered honeycomb pattern; the spindle cells of late nodular lesions are arranged in short fascicles in a matted or storiform pattern (Figure 4).^5,10 Early stages of DFSP as well as variations in childhood-onset DFSP can easily be misdiagnosed and incompletely excised.⁵

The Diagnosis: Dermatomyofibroma

Dermatomyofibroma is an uncommon, benign, cutaneous mesenchymal neoplasm composed of fibroblasts and myofibroblasts.^1-3 This skin tumor was first described in 1991 by Hugel⁴ in the German literature as plaquelike fibromatosis. Pediatric dermatomyofibromas are exceedingly rare, with pediatric patients ranging in age from infants to teenagers.¹

Clinically, dermatomyofibromas appear as long-standing, isolated, ill-demarcated, flesh-colored, slightly hyperpigmented or erythematous nodules or plaques that may be raised or indurated.¹ Dermatomyofibromas may present with constant mild pain or pruritus, though in most cases the lesions are asymptomatic.^1,3 The clinical presentation of dermatomyofibroma has a few distinct differences in children compared to adults. In adulthood, dermatomyofibroma has a strong female predominance and most commonly is located on the shoulder and adjacent upper body regions, including the axilla, neck, upper arm, and upper trunk.^1-3 In childhood, the majority of dermatomyofibromas occur in young boys and usually are located on the neck with other upper body regions occurring less frequently.^1,2 A shared characteristic includes the tendency for dermatomyofibromas to have an initial period of enlargement followed by stabilization or slow growth.¹ Reported pediatric lesions have ranged in size from 4 to 60 mm with an average size of 14.9 mm (median, 12 mm).²

The diagnosis of dermatomyofibroma is based on histopathologic features in addition to clinical presentation. Histology from punch biopsy usually reveals a noninvasive dermal proliferation of bland, uniform, slender spindle cells oriented parallel to the overlying epidermis with increased and fragmented elastic fibers.^1,3 Infiltration into the mid or deep dermis is common. The adnexal structures usually are spared; the stroma contains collagen and increased small blood vessels; and there typically is no inflammatory infiltrate, except for occasional scattered mast cells.² Cytologically, the monomorphic spindleshaped tumor cells have an ill-defined, pale, eosinophilic cytoplasm and nuclei that are elongated with tapered edges.³ Dermatomyofibroma has a variable immunohistochemical profile, as it may stain focally positive for CD34 or smooth muscle actin, with occasional staining of factor XIIIa, desmin, calponin, or vimentin.^1-3 Normal to increased levels of often fragmented elastic fibers is a helpful clue in distinguishing dermatomyofibroma from dermatofibroma, hypertrophic scar, dermatofibrosarcoma protuberans, and pilar leiomyoma, in which elastic fibers typically are reduced.³ Differential diagnoses of mesenchymal tumors in children include desmoid fibromatosis, connective tissue nevus, myofibromatosis, and smooth muscle hamartoma.¹

A punch biopsy with clinical observation and followup is recommended for the management of lesions in cosmetically sensitive areas or in very young children who may not tolerate surgery. In symptomatic or cosmetically unappealing cases of dermatomyofibroma, simple surgical excision remains a viable treatment option. Recurrence is uncommon, even if only partially excised, and no instances of metastasis have been reported.^1-5

Dermatomyofibromas may be mistaken for several other entities both benign and malignant. For example, the benign dermatofibroma is the second most common fibrohistiocytic tumor of the skin and presents as a firm, nontender, minimally elevated to dome-shaped papule that usually measures less than or equal to 1 cm in diameter with or without overlying skin changes.^5,6 It primarily is seen in adults with a slight female predominance and favors the lower extremities.⁵ Patients usually are asymptomatic but often report a history of local trauma at the lesion site.⁶ Histologically, dermatofibroma is characterized by a nodular dermal proliferation of spindleshaped fibrous cells and histiocytes in a storiform pattern (Figure 1).⁶ Epidermal induction with acanthosis overlying the tumor often is found with occasional basilar hyperpigmentation.⁵ Dermatofibroma also characteristically has trapped collagen (“collagen balls”) seen at the periphery.^5,6

Piloleiomyomas are benign smooth muscle tumors arising from arrector pili muscles that may be solitary or multiple.⁵ Clinically, they typically present as firm, reddish-brown to flesh-colored papules or nodules that develop more commonly in adulthood.^5,7 Piloleiomyomas favor the extremities and trunk, particularly the shoulder, and can be associated with spontaneous or induced pain. Histologically, piloleiomyomas are well circumscribed and centered within the reticular dermis situated closely to hair follicles (Figure 2).⁵ They are composed of numerous interlacing fascicles or whorls of smooth muscle cells with abundant eosinophilic cytoplasm and blunt-ended, cigar-shaped nuclei.^5,7

Solitary cutaneous myofibroma is a benign fibrous tumor found in adolescents and adults and is the counterpart to infantile myofibromatosis.⁸ Clinically, myofibromas typically present as painless, slow-growing, firm nodules with an occasional bluish hue. Histologically, solitary cutaneous myofibromas appear in a biphasic pattern, with hemangiopericytomatous components as well as spindle cells arranged in short bundles and fascicles resembling leiomyoma (Figure 3). The spindle cells also have abundant eosinophilic cytoplasm with short plump nuclei; the random, irregularly intersecting angles can be used to help differentiate myofibromas from smooth muscle lesions.⁸ Solitary cutaneous myofibroma is in the differential diagnosis for dermatomyofibroma because of their shared myofibroblastic nature.⁹

Dermatofibrosarcoma protuberans (DFSP) is an uncommon, locally invasive sarcoma with a high recurrence rate that favors young to middle-aged adults, with rare childhood onset reported.^5,10,11 Clinically, DFSP typically presents as an asymptomatic, slow-growing, firm, flesh-colored, indurated plaque that develops into a violaceous to reddish-brown nodule.⁵ The atrophic variant of DFSP is characterized by a nonprotuberant lesion and can be especially difficult to distinguish from other entities such as dermatomyofibroma.¹¹ The majority of DFSP lesions occur on the trunk, particularly in the shoulder or pelvic region.⁵ Histologically, early plaque lesions are comprised of monomorphic spindle cells arranged in long fascicles (parallel to the skin surface), infiltrating adnexal structures, and subcutaneous adipocytes in a multilayered honeycomb pattern; the spindle cells of late nodular lesions are arranged in short fascicles in a matted or storiform pattern (Figure 4).^5,10 Early stages of DFSP as well as variations in childhood-onset DFSP can easily be misdiagnosed and incompletely excised.⁵

Professional appearance of servicemembers has been a long-standing custom in the US Military. Specific standards are determined by each branch. Initially, men dominated the military.^1,2 As the number of women as well as racial diversity increased in the military, modifications to grooming standards were slow to change and resulted in female hair standards requiring a uniform tight and sleek style or short haircut. Clinicians can be attuned to these occupational standards and their implications on the diagnosis and management of common diseases of the hair and scalp.

History of Hairstyle Standards for Female Servicemembers

For half a century, female servicemembers had limited hairstyle choices. They were not authorized to have hair shorter than one-quarter inch in length. They could choose either short hair worn down or long hair with neatly secured loose ends in the form of a bun or a tucked braid—both of which could not extend past the bottom edge of the uniform collar.^3-5 Female navy sailors and air force airmen with long hair were only allowed to wear ponytails during physical training; however, army soldiers previously were limited to wearing a bun.^3,6,7 Cornrows and microbraids were authorized in the mid-1990s for the US Air Force, but policy stated that locs were prohibited due to their “unkempt” and “matted” nature. Furthermore, the size of hair bulk in the air force was restricted to no more than 3 inches and could not obstruct wear of the uniform cap.⁵ Based on these regulations, female servicemembers with longer hair had to utilize tight hairstyles that caused prolonged traction and pressure along the scalp, which contributed to headaches, a sore scalp, and alopecia over time. Normalization of these symptoms led to underreporting, as women lived with the consequences or turned to shorter hairstyles.

In the last decade alone, female servicemembers have witnessed the greatest number of changes in authorized hairstyles despite being part of the military for more than 50 years (Figure 1).^1-11 In 2014, the language used in the air force instructions to describe locs was revised to remove ethnically offensive terms.^4,5 This same year, the army allowed female soldiers to wear ponytails during physical training, a privilege that had been authorized by other services years prior.^3,6,7 By the end of 2018, locs were authorized by all services, and female sailors could wear a ponytail in all navy uniforms as long as it did not extend 3 inches below the collar.^3,4,6-8 In 2018, the air force increased authorized hair bulk up to 3.5 inches from the previous mandate of 3 inches and approved female buzz cuts^6,9; in 2020, it allowed hair bulk up to 4 inches. As of 2021, female airmen can wear a ponytail and/or braid(s) as long as it starts below the crown of the head and the length does not extend below a horizontal line running between the top of each sleeve inseam at the underarm (Figures 2–4).⁶ In an ongoing effort to be more inclusive of hair density differences, female airmen will be authorized to wear a ponytail not exceeding a maximum width bulk of 1 ft starting June 25, 2021, so long as they can comply with the above regulations.¹¹ The army now allows ponytails and braids across all uniforms, as long they do not extend past the bottom of the shoulder blades. This change came just months after authorizing the wearing of ponytails tucked under the uniform blouse with tactical headgear.¹⁰ These changes allow for a variety of hairstyles for members to practice while avoiding the physical consequences that develop from repetitive traction and pressure along the same areas of the hair and scalp.

Common Hair Disorders in Female Servicemembers

Herein, we discuss 3 of the most common hair and scalp disorders linked to grooming practices utilized by women to meet prior military regulations: trichorrhexis nodosa (TN), extracranial headaches, and traction alopecia (TA). It is essential that health care providers are able to promptly recognize these conditions, understand their risk factors, and be familiar with first-line treatment options. With these new standards, the hope is that the incidence of the following conditions decreases, thus improving servicemembers’ medical readiness and overall quality of life.

Trichorrhexis Nodosa
Acquired TN is a defect in the hair shaft that causes the hair to break easily secondary to chemical, thermal, or mechanical trauma. This can include but is not limited to chemical relaxers, blow-dryers, excessive brushing or styling, flat irons, and tightly packed hairstyles. The condition is characterized by a thickened hair diameter and splitting at the tip. Clinically, it may present as brittle, lusterless, broken hair with split ends, as well as a positive tug test.¹⁴ Management includes gentle hair care and avoidance of harsh hair care practices and treatments.

Extracranial Headaches
Headaches are a common concern among military servicemembers¹⁵ and generally are classified as primary or secondary. A less commonly discussed primary headache disorder includes external-pressure headaches, which result from either sustained compression or traction of the soft tissues of the scalp, usually from wearing headbands, helmets, or tight hairstyles.¹⁶ Additional at-risk groups include those who chronically wear surgical scrub caps or flight caps, especially if clipped or pinned to the hair. In our 38 years of combined military clinical experience, we can attest that these types of headaches are common among female servicemembers. The diagnostic criteria for an external-pressure headache, commonly referred to by patients as a “ponytail headache,” includes at least 2 headache episodes triggered within 1 hour of sustained traction on the scalp, maximal at the site of traction and resolving within 1 hour after relieving the traction.¹⁶ Management includes removal of the pressure-causing source, usually a tight ponytail or bun.

Traction Alopecia
Traction alopecia is hair loss caused by repetitive or prolonged tension on the hair secondary to tight hairstyles. It can be clinically classified into 2 types: marginal and nonmarginal patchy alopecia (Figure 5).^13,17,18 Traction alopecia most commonly is found in individuals with ethnic hair, predominantly Black women. Hairstyles with the highest risk for causing TA include tight buns, ponytails, cornrows, weaves, and locs—all of which are utilized by female servicemembers to maintain a professional appearance and adhere to grooming regulations.^13,18 Other groups at risk include athletes (eg, ballerinas, gymnasts) and those with chronic headwear use (eg, turbans, helmets, nurse caps, wigs).¹⁸ Early TA typically presents with perifollicular erythema followed by follicular-based papules or pustules.^13,18 Marginal TA classically includes frontotemporal hair loss or thinning with or without a fringe sign.^17,18 Nonmarginal TA includes patchy alopecia most commonly involving the parietal or occipital scalp, seen with chignons, buns, ponytails, or the use of clips, extensions, or bobby pins.¹⁸ The first line in management is avoidance of traction-causing hairstyles or headgear. Medical therapy may be warranted and consists of a single agent or combination regimen to include oral or topical antibiotics, topical or intralesional steroids, and topical minoxidil.^13,18

Final Thoughts

Military hair-grooming standards have evolved over time. Recent changes show that the US Department of Defense is seriously evaluating policies that may be inherently exclusive. Prior grooming standards resulted in the widespread use of tight hairstyles and harsh hair treatments among female servicemembers with long hair. These practices resulted in TN, extracranial headaches, and TA, among other hair and scalp disorders. These occupational-related hair conditions impact female servicemembers’ mental and physical well-being and thus impact military readiness. Physicians should recognize that these conditions can be related to occupational grooming standards that may impact hair care practices.

The challenge that remains is a lack of standardized documentation for hair and scalp symptoms in the medical record. Due to a paucity in reporting and documentation, limited objective data exist to guide future recommendations for military grooming standards. Another obstacle is the lack of knowledge of hair diseases among primary care providers and patients, especially due to the underrepresentation of ethnic hair in medical textbooks.¹⁹ As a result, women frequently accept their hair symptoms as normal and either suffer through them, cut their hair short, or wear wigs before considering a visit to the doctor. Furthermore, hair-grooming standards can expose racial disparities, which are the driving force behind the current policy changes. Clinicians can strive to ask about hair and scalp symptoms and document the following in relation to hair and scalp disorders: occupational grooming requirements; skin and hair type; location, number, and size of scalp lesion(s); onset; duration; current and prior hair care practices; history of treatment; and clinical course accompanied with photographic documentation. Ultimately, improved awareness in patients, collaboration between physicians, and consistent clinical documentation can help create positive change and continued improvement in hair-grooming standards within the military. Improved reporting and documentation will facilitate further study into the effectiveness of the updated hair-grooming standards in female servicemembers.

Professional appearance of servicemembers has been a long-standing custom in the US Military. Specific standards are determined by each branch. Initially, men dominated the military.^1,2 As the number of women as well as racial diversity increased in the military, modifications to grooming standards were slow to change and resulted in female hair standards requiring a uniform tight and sleek style or short haircut. Clinicians can be attuned to these occupational standards and their implications on the diagnosis and management of common diseases of the hair and scalp.

History of Hairstyle Standards for Female Servicemembers

For half a century, female servicemembers had limited hairstyle choices. They were not authorized to have hair shorter than one-quarter inch in length. They could choose either short hair worn down or long hair with neatly secured loose ends in the form of a bun or a tucked braid—both of which could not extend past the bottom edge of the uniform collar.^3-5 Female navy sailors and air force airmen with long hair were only allowed to wear ponytails during physical training; however, army soldiers previously were limited to wearing a bun.^3,6,7 Cornrows and microbraids were authorized in the mid-1990s for the US Air Force, but policy stated that locs were prohibited due to their “unkempt” and “matted” nature. Furthermore, the size of hair bulk in the air force was restricted to no more than 3 inches and could not obstruct wear of the uniform cap.⁵ Based on these regulations, female servicemembers with longer hair had to utilize tight hairstyles that caused prolonged traction and pressure along the scalp, which contributed to headaches, a sore scalp, and alopecia over time. Normalization of these symptoms led to underreporting, as women lived with the consequences or turned to shorter hairstyles.

In the last decade alone, female servicemembers have witnessed the greatest number of changes in authorized hairstyles despite being part of the military for more than 50 years (Figure 1).^1-11 In 2014, the language used in the air force instructions to describe locs was revised to remove ethnically offensive terms.^4,5 This same year, the army allowed female soldiers to wear ponytails during physical training, a privilege that had been authorized by other services years prior.^3,6,7 By the end of 2018, locs were authorized by all services, and female sailors could wear a ponytail in all navy uniforms as long as it did not extend 3 inches below the collar.^3,4,6-8 In 2018, the air force increased authorized hair bulk up to 3.5 inches from the previous mandate of 3 inches and approved female buzz cuts^6,9; in 2020, it allowed hair bulk up to 4 inches. As of 2021, female airmen can wear a ponytail and/or braid(s) as long as it starts below the crown of the head and the length does not extend below a horizontal line running between the top of each sleeve inseam at the underarm (Figures 2–4).⁶ In an ongoing effort to be more inclusive of hair density differences, female airmen will be authorized to wear a ponytail not exceeding a maximum width bulk of 1 ft starting June 25, 2021, so long as they can comply with the above regulations.¹¹ The army now allows ponytails and braids across all uniforms, as long they do not extend past the bottom of the shoulder blades. This change came just months after authorizing the wearing of ponytails tucked under the uniform blouse with tactical headgear.¹⁰ These changes allow for a variety of hairstyles for members to practice while avoiding the physical consequences that develop from repetitive traction and pressure along the same areas of the hair and scalp.

Common Hair Disorders in Female Servicemembers

Herein, we discuss 3 of the most common hair and scalp disorders linked to grooming practices utilized by women to meet prior military regulations: trichorrhexis nodosa (TN), extracranial headaches, and traction alopecia (TA). It is essential that health care providers are able to promptly recognize these conditions, understand their risk factors, and be familiar with first-line treatment options. With these new standards, the hope is that the incidence of the following conditions decreases, thus improving servicemembers’ medical readiness and overall quality of life.

Trichorrhexis Nodosa
Acquired TN is a defect in the hair shaft that causes the hair to break easily secondary to chemical, thermal, or mechanical trauma. This can include but is not limited to chemical relaxers, blow-dryers, excessive brushing or styling, flat irons, and tightly packed hairstyles. The condition is characterized by a thickened hair diameter and splitting at the tip. Clinically, it may present as brittle, lusterless, broken hair with split ends, as well as a positive tug test.¹⁴ Management includes gentle hair care and avoidance of harsh hair care practices and treatments.

Extracranial Headaches
Headaches are a common concern among military servicemembers¹⁵ and generally are classified as primary or secondary. A less commonly discussed primary headache disorder includes external-pressure headaches, which result from either sustained compression or traction of the soft tissues of the scalp, usually from wearing headbands, helmets, or tight hairstyles.¹⁶ Additional at-risk groups include those who chronically wear surgical scrub caps or flight caps, especially if clipped or pinned to the hair. In our 38 years of combined military clinical experience, we can attest that these types of headaches are common among female servicemembers. The diagnostic criteria for an external-pressure headache, commonly referred to by patients as a “ponytail headache,” includes at least 2 headache episodes triggered within 1 hour of sustained traction on the scalp, maximal at the site of traction and resolving within 1 hour after relieving the traction.¹⁶ Management includes removal of the pressure-causing source, usually a tight ponytail or bun.

Traction Alopecia
Traction alopecia is hair loss caused by repetitive or prolonged tension on the hair secondary to tight hairstyles. It can be clinically classified into 2 types: marginal and nonmarginal patchy alopecia (Figure 5).^13,17,18 Traction alopecia most commonly is found in individuals with ethnic hair, predominantly Black women. Hairstyles with the highest risk for causing TA include tight buns, ponytails, cornrows, weaves, and locs—all of which are utilized by female servicemembers to maintain a professional appearance and adhere to grooming regulations.^13,18 Other groups at risk include athletes (eg, ballerinas, gymnasts) and those with chronic headwear use (eg, turbans, helmets, nurse caps, wigs).¹⁸ Early TA typically presents with perifollicular erythema followed by follicular-based papules or pustules.^13,18 Marginal TA classically includes frontotemporal hair loss or thinning with or without a fringe sign.^17,18 Nonmarginal TA includes patchy alopecia most commonly involving the parietal or occipital scalp, seen with chignons, buns, ponytails, or the use of clips, extensions, or bobby pins.¹⁸ The first line in management is avoidance of traction-causing hairstyles or headgear. Medical therapy may be warranted and consists of a single agent or combination regimen to include oral or topical antibiotics, topical or intralesional steroids, and topical minoxidil.^13,18

Final Thoughts

Military hair-grooming standards have evolved over time. Recent changes show that the US Department of Defense is seriously evaluating policies that may be inherently exclusive. Prior grooming standards resulted in the widespread use of tight hairstyles and harsh hair treatments among female servicemembers with long hair. These practices resulted in TN, extracranial headaches, and TA, among other hair and scalp disorders. These occupational-related hair conditions impact female servicemembers’ mental and physical well-being and thus impact military readiness. Physicians should recognize that these conditions can be related to occupational grooming standards that may impact hair care practices.

The challenge that remains is a lack of standardized documentation for hair and scalp symptoms in the medical record. Due to a paucity in reporting and documentation, limited objective data exist to guide future recommendations for military grooming standards. Another obstacle is the lack of knowledge of hair diseases among primary care providers and patients, especially due to the underrepresentation of ethnic hair in medical textbooks.¹⁹ As a result, women frequently accept their hair symptoms as normal and either suffer through them, cut their hair short, or wear wigs before considering a visit to the doctor. Furthermore, hair-grooming standards can expose racial disparities, which are the driving force behind the current policy changes. Clinicians can strive to ask about hair and scalp symptoms and document the following in relation to hair and scalp disorders: occupational grooming requirements; skin and hair type; location, number, and size of scalp lesion(s); onset; duration; current and prior hair care practices; history of treatment; and clinical course accompanied with photographic documentation. Ultimately, improved awareness in patients, collaboration between physicians, and consistent clinical documentation can help create positive change and continued improvement in hair-grooming standards within the military. Improved reporting and documentation will facilitate further study into the effectiveness of the updated hair-grooming standards in female servicemembers.

Professional appearance of servicemembers has been a long-standing custom in the US Military. Specific standards are determined by each branch. Initially, men dominated the military.^1,2 As the number of women as well as racial diversity increased in the military, modifications to grooming standards were slow to change and resulted in female hair standards requiring a uniform tight and sleek style or short haircut. Clinicians can be attuned to these occupational standards and their implications on the diagnosis and management of common diseases of the hair and scalp.

History of Hairstyle Standards for Female Servicemembers

For half a century, female servicemembers had limited hairstyle choices. They were not authorized to have hair shorter than one-quarter inch in length. They could choose either short hair worn down or long hair with neatly secured loose ends in the form of a bun or a tucked braid—both of which could not extend past the bottom edge of the uniform collar.^3-5 Female navy sailors and air force airmen with long hair were only allowed to wear ponytails during physical training; however, army soldiers previously were limited to wearing a bun.^3,6,7 Cornrows and microbraids were authorized in the mid-1990s for the US Air Force, but policy stated that locs were prohibited due to their “unkempt” and “matted” nature. Furthermore, the size of hair bulk in the air force was restricted to no more than 3 inches and could not obstruct wear of the uniform cap.⁵ Based on these regulations, female servicemembers with longer hair had to utilize tight hairstyles that caused prolonged traction and pressure along the scalp, which contributed to headaches, a sore scalp, and alopecia over time. Normalization of these symptoms led to underreporting, as women lived with the consequences or turned to shorter hairstyles.

In the last decade alone, female servicemembers have witnessed the greatest number of changes in authorized hairstyles despite being part of the military for more than 50 years (Figure 1).^1-11 In 2014, the language used in the air force instructions to describe locs was revised to remove ethnically offensive terms.^4,5 This same year, the army allowed female soldiers to wear ponytails during physical training, a privilege that had been authorized by other services years prior.^3,6,7 By the end of 2018, locs were authorized by all services, and female sailors could wear a ponytail in all navy uniforms as long as it did not extend 3 inches below the collar.^3,4,6-8 In 2018, the air force increased authorized hair bulk up to 3.5 inches from the previous mandate of 3 inches and approved female buzz cuts^6,9; in 2020, it allowed hair bulk up to 4 inches. As of 2021, female airmen can wear a ponytail and/or braid(s) as long as it starts below the crown of the head and the length does not extend below a horizontal line running between the top of each sleeve inseam at the underarm (Figures 2–4).⁶ In an ongoing effort to be more inclusive of hair density differences, female airmen will be authorized to wear a ponytail not exceeding a maximum width bulk of 1 ft starting June 25, 2021, so long as they can comply with the above regulations.¹¹ The army now allows ponytails and braids across all uniforms, as long they do not extend past the bottom of the shoulder blades. This change came just months after authorizing the wearing of ponytails tucked under the uniform blouse with tactical headgear.¹⁰ These changes allow for a variety of hairstyles for members to practice while avoiding the physical consequences that develop from repetitive traction and pressure along the same areas of the hair and scalp.

Common Hair Disorders in Female Servicemembers

Herein, we discuss 3 of the most common hair and scalp disorders linked to grooming practices utilized by women to meet prior military regulations: trichorrhexis nodosa (TN), extracranial headaches, and traction alopecia (TA). It is essential that health care providers are able to promptly recognize these conditions, understand their risk factors, and be familiar with first-line treatment options. With these new standards, the hope is that the incidence of the following conditions decreases, thus improving servicemembers’ medical readiness and overall quality of life.

Trichorrhexis Nodosa
Acquired TN is a defect in the hair shaft that causes the hair to break easily secondary to chemical, thermal, or mechanical trauma. This can include but is not limited to chemical relaxers, blow-dryers, excessive brushing or styling, flat irons, and tightly packed hairstyles. The condition is characterized by a thickened hair diameter and splitting at the tip. Clinically, it may present as brittle, lusterless, broken hair with split ends, as well as a positive tug test.¹⁴ Management includes gentle hair care and avoidance of harsh hair care practices and treatments.

Extracranial Headaches
Headaches are a common concern among military servicemembers¹⁵ and generally are classified as primary or secondary. A less commonly discussed primary headache disorder includes external-pressure headaches, which result from either sustained compression or traction of the soft tissues of the scalp, usually from wearing headbands, helmets, or tight hairstyles.¹⁶ Additional at-risk groups include those who chronically wear surgical scrub caps or flight caps, especially if clipped or pinned to the hair. In our 38 years of combined military clinical experience, we can attest that these types of headaches are common among female servicemembers. The diagnostic criteria for an external-pressure headache, commonly referred to by patients as a “ponytail headache,” includes at least 2 headache episodes triggered within 1 hour of sustained traction on the scalp, maximal at the site of traction and resolving within 1 hour after relieving the traction.¹⁶ Management includes removal of the pressure-causing source, usually a tight ponytail or bun.

Traction Alopecia
Traction alopecia is hair loss caused by repetitive or prolonged tension on the hair secondary to tight hairstyles. It can be clinically classified into 2 types: marginal and nonmarginal patchy alopecia (Figure 5).^13,17,18 Traction alopecia most commonly is found in individuals with ethnic hair, predominantly Black women. Hairstyles with the highest risk for causing TA include tight buns, ponytails, cornrows, weaves, and locs—all of which are utilized by female servicemembers to maintain a professional appearance and adhere to grooming regulations.^13,18 Other groups at risk include athletes (eg, ballerinas, gymnasts) and those with chronic headwear use (eg, turbans, helmets, nurse caps, wigs).¹⁸ Early TA typically presents with perifollicular erythema followed by follicular-based papules or pustules.^13,18 Marginal TA classically includes frontotemporal hair loss or thinning with or without a fringe sign.^17,18 Nonmarginal TA includes patchy alopecia most commonly involving the parietal or occipital scalp, seen with chignons, buns, ponytails, or the use of clips, extensions, or bobby pins.¹⁸ The first line in management is avoidance of traction-causing hairstyles or headgear. Medical therapy may be warranted and consists of a single agent or combination regimen to include oral or topical antibiotics, topical or intralesional steroids, and topical minoxidil.^13,18

Final Thoughts

Military hair-grooming standards have evolved over time. Recent changes show that the US Department of Defense is seriously evaluating policies that may be inherently exclusive. Prior grooming standards resulted in the widespread use of tight hairstyles and harsh hair treatments among female servicemembers with long hair. These practices resulted in TN, extracranial headaches, and TA, among other hair and scalp disorders. These occupational-related hair conditions impact female servicemembers’ mental and physical well-being and thus impact military readiness. Physicians should recognize that these conditions can be related to occupational grooming standards that may impact hair care practices.

The challenge that remains is a lack of standardized documentation for hair and scalp symptoms in the medical record. Due to a paucity in reporting and documentation, limited objective data exist to guide future recommendations for military grooming standards. Another obstacle is the lack of knowledge of hair diseases among primary care providers and patients, especially due to the underrepresentation of ethnic hair in medical textbooks.¹⁹ As a result, women frequently accept their hair symptoms as normal and either suffer through them, cut their hair short, or wear wigs before considering a visit to the doctor. Furthermore, hair-grooming standards can expose racial disparities, which are the driving force behind the current policy changes. Clinicians can strive to ask about hair and scalp symptoms and document the following in relation to hair and scalp disorders: occupational grooming requirements; skin and hair type; location, number, and size of scalp lesion(s); onset; duration; current and prior hair care practices; history of treatment; and clinical course accompanied with photographic documentation. Ultimately, improved awareness in patients, collaboration between physicians, and consistent clinical documentation can help create positive change and continued improvement in hair-grooming standards within the military. Improved reporting and documentation will facilitate further study into the effectiveness of the updated hair-grooming standards in female servicemembers.

The US military enforces grooming standards to ensure the professional appearance and serviceability of soldiers in all operational settings. Although most individuals are able to uphold these regulations without incident, there is a growing cohort of servicemembers with skin diseases that were exacerbated or even initiated by haircuts, hairstyling, and shaving required to conform to these grooming standards. These skin diseases, which can affect both sexes and may not be appreciated until years into a soldier's service commitment, can have consequences related to individual morbidity and medical readiness for deployment, making it an important issue for medical practitioners to recognize and manage in servicemembers.

This review highlights several disorders of the pilosebaceous unit of the head and neck that can be caused or exacerbated by military grooming standards, including inflammatory hair disorders, traction alopecia, and pseudofolliculitis barbae. Discussion of each entity will include a review of susceptibility and causality as well as initial treatment options to consider (Table).

Inflammatory Hair Disorders

The proper appearance of servicemembers in uniform represents self-discipline and conformity to the high standards of the military. This transition occurs as a rite of passage for many new male recruits who receive shaved haircuts during their first days of basic training. Thereafter, male servicemembers are required to maintain a tapered appearance of the hair per military regulations.¹ Clipping hair closely to the scalp or shaving the head entirely are authorized and often encouraged; therefore, high and tight haircuts and buzz cuts are popular among male soldiers due to the general ease of care and ability to maintain the haircut themselves. Conversely, these styles require servicemembers to get weekly or biweekly haircuts that in turn can lead to chronic trauma and irritation. In more susceptible populations, inflammatory hair disorders such as acne keloidalis nuchae (AKN), dissecting cellulitis of the scalp, and folliculitis decalvans may be incited.

Acne Keloidalis Nuchae
Acne keloidalis nuchae, also called folliculitis keloidalis, is a chronic scarring folliculitis presenting with papules and plaques on the occiput and nape of the neck that may merge to form hypertrophic scars or keloids. This disorder most commonly develops in young black men but also can be seen in black females and white patients of both sexes.² Acne keloidalis nuchae shares many histologic features with central centrifugal cicatricial alopecia, which may suggest a similar pathogenesis. Apart from frequent haircuts, tight-collared shirts, such as those on military service uniforms, also have been associated with AKN. Because of these suspected etiologies, first-line treatment focuses on preventing further trauma by avoiding mechanical irritation and short haircuts, which may be difficult in the military setting. For earlier disease stages, topical and intralesional corticosteroids, oral retinoids, and topical and oral antibiotics are used for their anti-inflammatory properties.³ In refractory cases, surgical excision with healing by secondary intention may be attempted.⁴ Additional treatment options include the 1064-nm Nd:YAG and 810-nm diode lasers,³ UVB light therapy, CO₂ laser, and radiotherapy.

Dissecting Cellulitis of the Scalp
Similar to AKN, dissecting cellulitis of the scalp is another inflammatory hair disorder that is worsened by frequent short haircuts.⁵ Dissecting cellulitis of the scalp is a primary cicatricial alopecia proposed to be secondary to follicular occlusion. It often is seen in black males aged 20 to 40 years and is characterized by boggy suppurative nodules and cysts with draining sinus tracts, abscesses, and resultant scarring alopecia. Dissecting cellulitis of the scalp is part of the follicular occlusion tetrad, which also includes hidradenitis suppurativa, acne conglobata, and pilonidal cysts. First-line therapies include topical and oral antibiotics, topical retinoids, intralesional corticosteroids, incision and drainage of fluctuant nodules, and oral isotretinoin with or without rifampin. Alternative treatments include oral zinc supplementation, oral corticosteroids, tumor necrosis factor α inhibitors, laser therapies, radiotherapy, and surgical management with wide local excision or total scalpectomy.^6,7

Folliculitis Decalvans
Folliculitis decalvans is a primary cicatricial alopecia of the scalp that most commonly presents in middle-aged men without racial predilection.⁸ Folliculitis decalvans presents with multiple pustules, crusts, tufted hairs, and perifollicular hyperkeratosis, leading to scarring of the scalp, which often is most severe on the posterior vertex. Staphylococcus aureus is a presumed player in the pathogenesis of folliculitis decalvans with superantigens causing release of cytokines stimulating follicular destruction. Close haircuts in conformation with military grooming standards can contribute to this condition due to mechanical trauma and subsequent inflammation. It typically is diagnosed clinically, but if histologic confirmation is desired, a sample from the periphery of early lesions is preferred.⁹ Initial treatment consists of antibacterial shampoos, topical corticosteroids, topical antibiotics, and combination oral antibiotic therapy with rifampin and clindamycin. Studies using oral isotretinoin have shown variable results,^10,11 and the most effective treatment of recalcitrant lesions appears to be intralesional corticosteroids.¹²

Follicular and Scarring Disorders

In addition to inflammatory hair disorders, military grooming standards have been linked to the pathogenesis of diseases such as pseudofolliculitis barbae, traction alopecia, and keloids, specifically through irritation of the face, neck, and scalp, as well as damage to the follicular unit.⁵ These conditions develop because grooming regulations necessitate certain hair practices such as close shaving of facial and neck hair and keeping long hair secured relatively tightly to the scalp.

Pseudofolliculitis Barbae
Males in the military are obligated to keep their faces clean-shaven.¹ They may acquire a medical waiver for a specified beard length if deemed appropriate by the treating physician,¹ which often leads to the need for continual waiver renewal and also may warrant possible negative perception from peers, subordinates, and leadership. One of the most prevalent conditions that is closely associated with shaving is pseudofolliculitis barbae. The combination of close shaving and tightly coiled hairs causes the hairs to grow toward and penetrate the skin, particularly on the neck.¹³ In some cases, the hairs never actually exit the skin and simply curl within the superficial epidermis. A foreign body reaction often arises, leading to inflamed follicular papules and pustules. Affected individuals may experience pain, pruritus, and secondary infections. Postinflammatory hyperpigmentation, hypertrophic scarring, and keloid formation are common sequelae in cases of untreated disease. Pseudofolliculitis barbae also is exacerbated by pulling the skin taut and shaving against the grain, making behavioral interventions a key component in management of this condition. Preliminary recommendations include using a new or electric razor, leaving hair at least 2 mm in length, and shaving in the direction of hair growth. Other treatment options with varying effectiveness include daily alternation of a mild topical corticosteroid and one of the following: a topical retinoid, topical antibiotics, or glycolic acid. The only treatments that approach definitive cure are laser hair removal and electrolysis for which patient skin type plays an important role in laser selection.⁵

Traction Alopecia
Similar to their male counterparts, female military members must also present a conservative professional appearance, including hair that is neatly groomed.¹ If the length of the hair extends beyond the uniform collar, it must be inconspicuously fastened or pinned above the collar. As a result, loosely tied hair is unauthorized, and females with long hair must secure their hair tightly on a daily basis. Traction alopecia results from tight hairstyling over a prolonged period and commonly affects female soldiers. The etiology is presumed to be mechanical loosening of hair within the follicles, leading to inflammation. Although traditionally seen in black women along the frontal and temporal hairlines, traction alopecia has been identified in individuals of all races and can occur anywhere on the scalp.⁵ Perifollicular erythema may be the first sign, and papules and pustules may be visible. Although the hair loss in traction alopecia usually is reversible if the traction is ceased, end-stage disease may be permanent.6 Halting traction-inducing practices is paramount, and other treatment options that may slow progression include topical or oral antibiotics and topical or intralesional corticosteroids. Recovery of hair loss also may be aided by topical minoxidil.⁵

Keloids
Keloid formation is an important pathology to address, as it may result from several of the aforementioned conditions. Keloids are most commonly seen in black individuals but also can occur in Hispanic and Asian patients. The cause has not been fully elucidated but is thought to be a combination of dysfunctional fibroblasts with a genetic component based on racial predilection and twin concordance studies.⁵ The chest, shoulders, upper back, neck, and earlobes are particularly susceptible to keloid formation, which can appear from 1 to 24 years following dermal trauma.5 Unlike hypertrophic scars, keloids generally do not regress and frequently cause discomfort, pruritus, and emotional distress. They also can hinder wearing a military uniform. Sustained remission is problematic, making prevention a first-line approach, including proper care of wounds when they occur and avoiding elective procedures such as piercings and tattoos. Intralesional corticosteroids, adjuvant injections (eg, 5-fluorouracil), silicone sheeting, cryotherapy, radiation, laser therapy, and excision are some of the treatment options when keloids have formed.⁵

Final Comment

It is important to recognize military grooming standards as a cause or contributor to several diseases of the head and neck in military servicemembers. Specifically, frequent haircuts in male soldiers are associated with several inflammatory hair disorders, including AKN, dissecting cellulitis of the scalp, and folliculitis decalvans, while daily shaving predisposes individuals to pseudofolliculitis barbae with possible keloid formation. Females may develop traction alopecia from chronically tight, pulled back hairstyles. All of these conditions have health implications for the affected individuals and can compromise the military mission. Awareness, prevention, and recognition are key along with the knowledge base to provide anticipatory avoidance and initiate appropriate treatments, thereby mitigating these potential consequences.

The US military enforces grooming standards to ensure the professional appearance and serviceability of soldiers in all operational settings. Although most individuals are able to uphold these regulations without incident, there is a growing cohort of servicemembers with skin diseases that were exacerbated or even initiated by haircuts, hairstyling, and shaving required to conform to these grooming standards. These skin diseases, which can affect both sexes and may not be appreciated until years into a soldier's service commitment, can have consequences related to individual morbidity and medical readiness for deployment, making it an important issue for medical practitioners to recognize and manage in servicemembers.

This review highlights several disorders of the pilosebaceous unit of the head and neck that can be caused or exacerbated by military grooming standards, including inflammatory hair disorders, traction alopecia, and pseudofolliculitis barbae. Discussion of each entity will include a review of susceptibility and causality as well as initial treatment options to consider (Table).

Inflammatory Hair Disorders

The proper appearance of servicemembers in uniform represents self-discipline and conformity to the high standards of the military. This transition occurs as a rite of passage for many new male recruits who receive shaved haircuts during their first days of basic training. Thereafter, male servicemembers are required to maintain a tapered appearance of the hair per military regulations.¹ Clipping hair closely to the scalp or shaving the head entirely are authorized and often encouraged; therefore, high and tight haircuts and buzz cuts are popular among male soldiers due to the general ease of care and ability to maintain the haircut themselves. Conversely, these styles require servicemembers to get weekly or biweekly haircuts that in turn can lead to chronic trauma and irritation. In more susceptible populations, inflammatory hair disorders such as acne keloidalis nuchae (AKN), dissecting cellulitis of the scalp, and folliculitis decalvans may be incited.

Acne Keloidalis Nuchae
Acne keloidalis nuchae, also called folliculitis keloidalis, is a chronic scarring folliculitis presenting with papules and plaques on the occiput and nape of the neck that may merge to form hypertrophic scars or keloids. This disorder most commonly develops in young black men but also can be seen in black females and white patients of both sexes.² Acne keloidalis nuchae shares many histologic features with central centrifugal cicatricial alopecia, which may suggest a similar pathogenesis. Apart from frequent haircuts, tight-collared shirts, such as those on military service uniforms, also have been associated with AKN. Because of these suspected etiologies, first-line treatment focuses on preventing further trauma by avoiding mechanical irritation and short haircuts, which may be difficult in the military setting. For earlier disease stages, topical and intralesional corticosteroids, oral retinoids, and topical and oral antibiotics are used for their anti-inflammatory properties.³ In refractory cases, surgical excision with healing by secondary intention may be attempted.⁴ Additional treatment options include the 1064-nm Nd:YAG and 810-nm diode lasers,³ UVB light therapy, CO₂ laser, and radiotherapy.

Dissecting Cellulitis of the Scalp
Similar to AKN, dissecting cellulitis of the scalp is another inflammatory hair disorder that is worsened by frequent short haircuts.⁵ Dissecting cellulitis of the scalp is a primary cicatricial alopecia proposed to be secondary to follicular occlusion. It often is seen in black males aged 20 to 40 years and is characterized by boggy suppurative nodules and cysts with draining sinus tracts, abscesses, and resultant scarring alopecia. Dissecting cellulitis of the scalp is part of the follicular occlusion tetrad, which also includes hidradenitis suppurativa, acne conglobata, and pilonidal cysts. First-line therapies include topical and oral antibiotics, topical retinoids, intralesional corticosteroids, incision and drainage of fluctuant nodules, and oral isotretinoin with or without rifampin. Alternative treatments include oral zinc supplementation, oral corticosteroids, tumor necrosis factor α inhibitors, laser therapies, radiotherapy, and surgical management with wide local excision or total scalpectomy.^6,7

Folliculitis Decalvans
Folliculitis decalvans is a primary cicatricial alopecia of the scalp that most commonly presents in middle-aged men without racial predilection.⁸ Folliculitis decalvans presents with multiple pustules, crusts, tufted hairs, and perifollicular hyperkeratosis, leading to scarring of the scalp, which often is most severe on the posterior vertex. Staphylococcus aureus is a presumed player in the pathogenesis of folliculitis decalvans with superantigens causing release of cytokines stimulating follicular destruction. Close haircuts in conformation with military grooming standards can contribute to this condition due to mechanical trauma and subsequent inflammation. It typically is diagnosed clinically, but if histologic confirmation is desired, a sample from the periphery of early lesions is preferred.⁹ Initial treatment consists of antibacterial shampoos, topical corticosteroids, topical antibiotics, and combination oral antibiotic therapy with rifampin and clindamycin. Studies using oral isotretinoin have shown variable results,^10,11 and the most effective treatment of recalcitrant lesions appears to be intralesional corticosteroids.¹²

Follicular and Scarring Disorders

In addition to inflammatory hair disorders, military grooming standards have been linked to the pathogenesis of diseases such as pseudofolliculitis barbae, traction alopecia, and keloids, specifically through irritation of the face, neck, and scalp, as well as damage to the follicular unit.⁵ These conditions develop because grooming regulations necessitate certain hair practices such as close shaving of facial and neck hair and keeping long hair secured relatively tightly to the scalp.

Pseudofolliculitis Barbae
Males in the military are obligated to keep their faces clean-shaven.¹ They may acquire a medical waiver for a specified beard length if deemed appropriate by the treating physician,¹ which often leads to the need for continual waiver renewal and also may warrant possible negative perception from peers, subordinates, and leadership. One of the most prevalent conditions that is closely associated with shaving is pseudofolliculitis barbae. The combination of close shaving and tightly coiled hairs causes the hairs to grow toward and penetrate the skin, particularly on the neck.¹³ In some cases, the hairs never actually exit the skin and simply curl within the superficial epidermis. A foreign body reaction often arises, leading to inflamed follicular papules and pustules. Affected individuals may experience pain, pruritus, and secondary infections. Postinflammatory hyperpigmentation, hypertrophic scarring, and keloid formation are common sequelae in cases of untreated disease. Pseudofolliculitis barbae also is exacerbated by pulling the skin taut and shaving against the grain, making behavioral interventions a key component in management of this condition. Preliminary recommendations include using a new or electric razor, leaving hair at least 2 mm in length, and shaving in the direction of hair growth. Other treatment options with varying effectiveness include daily alternation of a mild topical corticosteroid and one of the following: a topical retinoid, topical antibiotics, or glycolic acid. The only treatments that approach definitive cure are laser hair removal and electrolysis for which patient skin type plays an important role in laser selection.⁵

Traction Alopecia
Similar to their male counterparts, female military members must also present a conservative professional appearance, including hair that is neatly groomed.¹ If the length of the hair extends beyond the uniform collar, it must be inconspicuously fastened or pinned above the collar. As a result, loosely tied hair is unauthorized, and females with long hair must secure their hair tightly on a daily basis. Traction alopecia results from tight hairstyling over a prolonged period and commonly affects female soldiers. The etiology is presumed to be mechanical loosening of hair within the follicles, leading to inflammation. Although traditionally seen in black women along the frontal and temporal hairlines, traction alopecia has been identified in individuals of all races and can occur anywhere on the scalp.⁵ Perifollicular erythema may be the first sign, and papules and pustules may be visible. Although the hair loss in traction alopecia usually is reversible if the traction is ceased, end-stage disease may be permanent.6 Halting traction-inducing practices is paramount, and other treatment options that may slow progression include topical or oral antibiotics and topical or intralesional corticosteroids. Recovery of hair loss also may be aided by topical minoxidil.⁵

Keloids
Keloid formation is an important pathology to address, as it may result from several of the aforementioned conditions. Keloids are most commonly seen in black individuals but also can occur in Hispanic and Asian patients. The cause has not been fully elucidated but is thought to be a combination of dysfunctional fibroblasts with a genetic component based on racial predilection and twin concordance studies.⁵ The chest, shoulders, upper back, neck, and earlobes are particularly susceptible to keloid formation, which can appear from 1 to 24 years following dermal trauma.5 Unlike hypertrophic scars, keloids generally do not regress and frequently cause discomfort, pruritus, and emotional distress. They also can hinder wearing a military uniform. Sustained remission is problematic, making prevention a first-line approach, including proper care of wounds when they occur and avoiding elective procedures such as piercings and tattoos. Intralesional corticosteroids, adjuvant injections (eg, 5-fluorouracil), silicone sheeting, cryotherapy, radiation, laser therapy, and excision are some of the treatment options when keloids have formed.⁵

Final Comment

It is important to recognize military grooming standards as a cause or contributor to several diseases of the head and neck in military servicemembers. Specifically, frequent haircuts in male soldiers are associated with several inflammatory hair disorders, including AKN, dissecting cellulitis of the scalp, and folliculitis decalvans, while daily shaving predisposes individuals to pseudofolliculitis barbae with possible keloid formation. Females may develop traction alopecia from chronically tight, pulled back hairstyles. All of these conditions have health implications for the affected individuals and can compromise the military mission. Awareness, prevention, and recognition are key along with the knowledge base to provide anticipatory avoidance and initiate appropriate treatments, thereby mitigating these potential consequences.

The US military enforces grooming standards to ensure the professional appearance and serviceability of soldiers in all operational settings. Although most individuals are able to uphold these regulations without incident, there is a growing cohort of servicemembers with skin diseases that were exacerbated or even initiated by haircuts, hairstyling, and shaving required to conform to these grooming standards. These skin diseases, which can affect both sexes and may not be appreciated until years into a soldier's service commitment, can have consequences related to individual morbidity and medical readiness for deployment, making it an important issue for medical practitioners to recognize and manage in servicemembers.

This review highlights several disorders of the pilosebaceous unit of the head and neck that can be caused or exacerbated by military grooming standards, including inflammatory hair disorders, traction alopecia, and pseudofolliculitis barbae. Discussion of each entity will include a review of susceptibility and causality as well as initial treatment options to consider (Table).

Inflammatory Hair Disorders

The proper appearance of servicemembers in uniform represents self-discipline and conformity to the high standards of the military. This transition occurs as a rite of passage for many new male recruits who receive shaved haircuts during their first days of basic training. Thereafter, male servicemembers are required to maintain a tapered appearance of the hair per military regulations.¹ Clipping hair closely to the scalp or shaving the head entirely are authorized and often encouraged; therefore, high and tight haircuts and buzz cuts are popular among male soldiers due to the general ease of care and ability to maintain the haircut themselves. Conversely, these styles require servicemembers to get weekly or biweekly haircuts that in turn can lead to chronic trauma and irritation. In more susceptible populations, inflammatory hair disorders such as acne keloidalis nuchae (AKN), dissecting cellulitis of the scalp, and folliculitis decalvans may be incited.

Acne Keloidalis Nuchae
Acne keloidalis nuchae, also called folliculitis keloidalis, is a chronic scarring folliculitis presenting with papules and plaques on the occiput and nape of the neck that may merge to form hypertrophic scars or keloids. This disorder most commonly develops in young black men but also can be seen in black females and white patients of both sexes.² Acne keloidalis nuchae shares many histologic features with central centrifugal cicatricial alopecia, which may suggest a similar pathogenesis. Apart from frequent haircuts, tight-collared shirts, such as those on military service uniforms, also have been associated with AKN. Because of these suspected etiologies, first-line treatment focuses on preventing further trauma by avoiding mechanical irritation and short haircuts, which may be difficult in the military setting. For earlier disease stages, topical and intralesional corticosteroids, oral retinoids, and topical and oral antibiotics are used for their anti-inflammatory properties.³ In refractory cases, surgical excision with healing by secondary intention may be attempted.⁴ Additional treatment options include the 1064-nm Nd:YAG and 810-nm diode lasers,³ UVB light therapy, CO₂ laser, and radiotherapy.

Dissecting Cellulitis of the Scalp
Similar to AKN, dissecting cellulitis of the scalp is another inflammatory hair disorder that is worsened by frequent short haircuts.⁵ Dissecting cellulitis of the scalp is a primary cicatricial alopecia proposed to be secondary to follicular occlusion. It often is seen in black males aged 20 to 40 years and is characterized by boggy suppurative nodules and cysts with draining sinus tracts, abscesses, and resultant scarring alopecia. Dissecting cellulitis of the scalp is part of the follicular occlusion tetrad, which also includes hidradenitis suppurativa, acne conglobata, and pilonidal cysts. First-line therapies include topical and oral antibiotics, topical retinoids, intralesional corticosteroids, incision and drainage of fluctuant nodules, and oral isotretinoin with or without rifampin. Alternative treatments include oral zinc supplementation, oral corticosteroids, tumor necrosis factor α inhibitors, laser therapies, radiotherapy, and surgical management with wide local excision or total scalpectomy.^6,7

Folliculitis Decalvans
Folliculitis decalvans is a primary cicatricial alopecia of the scalp that most commonly presents in middle-aged men without racial predilection.⁸ Folliculitis decalvans presents with multiple pustules, crusts, tufted hairs, and perifollicular hyperkeratosis, leading to scarring of the scalp, which often is most severe on the posterior vertex. Staphylococcus aureus is a presumed player in the pathogenesis of folliculitis decalvans with superantigens causing release of cytokines stimulating follicular destruction. Close haircuts in conformation with military grooming standards can contribute to this condition due to mechanical trauma and subsequent inflammation. It typically is diagnosed clinically, but if histologic confirmation is desired, a sample from the periphery of early lesions is preferred.⁹ Initial treatment consists of antibacterial shampoos, topical corticosteroids, topical antibiotics, and combination oral antibiotic therapy with rifampin and clindamycin. Studies using oral isotretinoin have shown variable results,^10,11 and the most effective treatment of recalcitrant lesions appears to be intralesional corticosteroids.¹²

Follicular and Scarring Disorders

In addition to inflammatory hair disorders, military grooming standards have been linked to the pathogenesis of diseases such as pseudofolliculitis barbae, traction alopecia, and keloids, specifically through irritation of the face, neck, and scalp, as well as damage to the follicular unit.⁵ These conditions develop because grooming regulations necessitate certain hair practices such as close shaving of facial and neck hair and keeping long hair secured relatively tightly to the scalp.

Pseudofolliculitis Barbae
Males in the military are obligated to keep their faces clean-shaven.¹ They may acquire a medical waiver for a specified beard length if deemed appropriate by the treating physician,¹ which often leads to the need for continual waiver renewal and also may warrant possible negative perception from peers, subordinates, and leadership. One of the most prevalent conditions that is closely associated with shaving is pseudofolliculitis barbae. The combination of close shaving and tightly coiled hairs causes the hairs to grow toward and penetrate the skin, particularly on the neck.¹³ In some cases, the hairs never actually exit the skin and simply curl within the superficial epidermis. A foreign body reaction often arises, leading to inflamed follicular papules and pustules. Affected individuals may experience pain, pruritus, and secondary infections. Postinflammatory hyperpigmentation, hypertrophic scarring, and keloid formation are common sequelae in cases of untreated disease. Pseudofolliculitis barbae also is exacerbated by pulling the skin taut and shaving against the grain, making behavioral interventions a key component in management of this condition. Preliminary recommendations include using a new or electric razor, leaving hair at least 2 mm in length, and shaving in the direction of hair growth. Other treatment options with varying effectiveness include daily alternation of a mild topical corticosteroid and one of the following: a topical retinoid, topical antibiotics, or glycolic acid. The only treatments that approach definitive cure are laser hair removal and electrolysis for which patient skin type plays an important role in laser selection.⁵

Traction Alopecia
Similar to their male counterparts, female military members must also present a conservative professional appearance, including hair that is neatly groomed.¹ If the length of the hair extends beyond the uniform collar, it must be inconspicuously fastened or pinned above the collar. As a result, loosely tied hair is unauthorized, and females with long hair must secure their hair tightly on a daily basis. Traction alopecia results from tight hairstyling over a prolonged period and commonly affects female soldiers. The etiology is presumed to be mechanical loosening of hair within the follicles, leading to inflammation. Although traditionally seen in black women along the frontal and temporal hairlines, traction alopecia has been identified in individuals of all races and can occur anywhere on the scalp.⁵ Perifollicular erythema may be the first sign, and papules and pustules may be visible. Although the hair loss in traction alopecia usually is reversible if the traction is ceased, end-stage disease may be permanent.6 Halting traction-inducing practices is paramount, and other treatment options that may slow progression include topical or oral antibiotics and topical or intralesional corticosteroids. Recovery of hair loss also may be aided by topical minoxidil.⁵

Keloids
Keloid formation is an important pathology to address, as it may result from several of the aforementioned conditions. Keloids are most commonly seen in black individuals but also can occur in Hispanic and Asian patients. The cause has not been fully elucidated but is thought to be a combination of dysfunctional fibroblasts with a genetic component based on racial predilection and twin concordance studies.⁵ The chest, shoulders, upper back, neck, and earlobes are particularly susceptible to keloid formation, which can appear from 1 to 24 years following dermal trauma.5 Unlike hypertrophic scars, keloids generally do not regress and frequently cause discomfort, pruritus, and emotional distress. They also can hinder wearing a military uniform. Sustained remission is problematic, making prevention a first-line approach, including proper care of wounds when they occur and avoiding elective procedures such as piercings and tattoos. Intralesional corticosteroids, adjuvant injections (eg, 5-fluorouracil), silicone sheeting, cryotherapy, radiation, laser therapy, and excision are some of the treatment options when keloids have formed.⁵

Final Comment

It is important to recognize military grooming standards as a cause or contributor to several diseases of the head and neck in military servicemembers. Specifically, frequent haircuts in male soldiers are associated with several inflammatory hair disorders, including AKN, dissecting cellulitis of the scalp, and folliculitis decalvans, while daily shaving predisposes individuals to pseudofolliculitis barbae with possible keloid formation. Females may develop traction alopecia from chronically tight, pulled back hairstyles. All of these conditions have health implications for the affected individuals and can compromise the military mission. Awareness, prevention, and recognition are key along with the knowledge base to provide anticipatory avoidance and initiate appropriate treatments, thereby mitigating these potential consequences.

Lupus erythematosus tumidus (LET) is a relatively rare condition but may simply be underdiagnosed in the literature. It presents as urticarialike papules and plaques in sun-exposed areas, characterized by induration and erythema. Lesions occur on the face, neck, upper extremities, and trunk and heal without scarring.^1,2 Rarely, lesions can show fine scaling and associated pruritus, but most often the lesions are asymptomatic.³

Case Report

A 45-year-old woman presented with 2 asymptomatic self-described bald spots on the top of the head of 2 months’ duration. The patient denied prior treatment of the lesions and noted one patch was resolving. She reported no involvement of the eyebrows, eyelashes, and axillary and pubic hair. A review of systems was negative. The patient denied personal or family history of lupus, thyroid disease, or vitiligo.

Clinical examination revealed a 1.1-cm round patch of nonscarring alopecia on the right vertex scalp and a 0.9-cm round patch of nonscarring alopecia with moderate hair regrowth on the left vertex scalp. There was no erythema, scaling, or induration. The rest of the scalp was normal in appearance and the eyebrows and eyelashes were uninvolved. The patient was diagnosed with alopecia areata and was treated with 10 mg/mL of intralesional triamcinolone once monthly for 4 months.

The patient initially showed improvement with moderate hair regrowth. After 4 months of treatment, she developed 3 new 1- to 1.5-cm erythematous alopecic patches on the vertex scalp and had worsening in the initial patches (Figure 1). Given the resistance to standard therapy and the onset of multiple new areas with evidence of inflammatory involvement, a punch biopsy was performed. Histopathologic examination revealed a fairly unremarkable epidermis and a dense dermal inflammatory infiltrate that was present both in the superficial and deep dermis (Figure 2). The inflammatory cells, which appeared to be predominantly comprised of lymphocytes, had a predilection for the vasculature but also were observed within the interstitial dermis. Additionally, mucin appeared to be slightly increased in the deep dermis. The lymphocytic phenotype was confirmed by immunohistochemical studies for CD20 and CD3. The most likely possibilities for this reaction pattern were LET, Jessner lymphocytic infiltrate of the skin (JLIS), gyrate erythema, and lymphoma; however, the immunohistochemical studies effectively ruled out lymphoma. Additionally, there was pronounced dermal mucin noted in the specimen. The patient was diagnosed with LET of the scalp based on the constellation of findings.

Comment

The classification of LET as a single unique entity or disease process sui generis has been in flux in the last decade. Its similarities to JLIS and other forms of chronic cutaneous lupus erythematosus (CCLE) have brought debate.^4-6 In 1930, Gougerot and Burnier⁷ documented the first case of LET in the literature, describing smooth, infiltrated, erythematous lesions with no desquamation or other superficial changes seen in 5 patients.

In 2000, interest in LET and other forms of CCLE was increasing, and reports in the literature paralleled. That year, Kuhn et al⁴ reported 40 cases of LET, characterizing the clinical and histological features of each case to demonstrate that LET should be separate from other forms of CCLE. Until then, it is likely that many lesions that should have been classified as LET were instead classified as various forms of CCLE. The investigators maintained that LET also should be distinct from JLIS because it is associated with UV exposure.⁴ Kuhn et al⁸ reviewed phototesting in 60 patients with LET in 2001 and confirmed this subset was the most photosensitive type of lupus erythematosus.

In general, the histopathologic and immunohistochemical studies in LET and JLIS can be quite similar. Relatively distinguishing histopathologic findings in JLIS include no evidence of epidermal atrophy, basal vacuolar change, or follicular plugging, as well as negative immunofluorescence studies. Both entities show a predominantly T-cell population with a smaller component of B cells and thus a distinction cannot be made based on relative proportions of T and B cells in lesions.²

In 2003, Alexiades-Armenakas et al⁶ determined immunohistochemical criteria for LET, finding a predominance of T cells and more CD4 lymphocytes than CD8 lymphocytes with a mean ratio of roughly 3 to 1. Their study results maintained LET should be classified as a form of CCLE due to the chronicity of the lesions, the serologic profile with negative anti–double-stranded DNA, anticentromere, anti-Smith, anti-Ro/Sjögren syndrome antigen A, anti-La/Sjögren syndrome antigen B, and anti-nuclear ribonucleoprotein antibodies and the rare association with systemic disease.⁶ This conclusion was further solidified by a review published that same year citing unique histopathological features when compared to subacute cutaneous LE and discoid lupus erythematosus.⁵

This case illustrates the importance of histologic evaluation in determining the correct diagnosis in a patient with alopecia areata recalcitrant to treatment. Including LET in the differential of alopecic patches on the scalp could prove beneficial for patients, as LET responds well to antimalarial drugs and photoprotection.⁹ This patient had a normal antinuclear antibody panel and no signs or symptoms of systemic lupus. It was recommended that she avoid sun exposure and begin treatment with hydroxychloroquine but she declined. At a follow-up visit 6 months later she reported the lesions had improved, but a permanent wig had been sewn over the area, so it could not be examined.

Lupus erythematosus tumidus (LET) is a relatively rare condition but may simply be underdiagnosed in the literature. It presents as urticarialike papules and plaques in sun-exposed areas, characterized by induration and erythema. Lesions occur on the face, neck, upper extremities, and trunk and heal without scarring.^1,2 Rarely, lesions can show fine scaling and associated pruritus, but most often the lesions are asymptomatic.³

Case Report

A 45-year-old woman presented with 2 asymptomatic self-described bald spots on the top of the head of 2 months’ duration. The patient denied prior treatment of the lesions and noted one patch was resolving. She reported no involvement of the eyebrows, eyelashes, and axillary and pubic hair. A review of systems was negative. The patient denied personal or family history of lupus, thyroid disease, or vitiligo.

Clinical examination revealed a 1.1-cm round patch of nonscarring alopecia on the right vertex scalp and a 0.9-cm round patch of nonscarring alopecia with moderate hair regrowth on the left vertex scalp. There was no erythema, scaling, or induration. The rest of the scalp was normal in appearance and the eyebrows and eyelashes were uninvolved. The patient was diagnosed with alopecia areata and was treated with 10 mg/mL of intralesional triamcinolone once monthly for 4 months.

The patient initially showed improvement with moderate hair regrowth. After 4 months of treatment, she developed 3 new 1- to 1.5-cm erythematous alopecic patches on the vertex scalp and had worsening in the initial patches (Figure 1). Given the resistance to standard therapy and the onset of multiple new areas with evidence of inflammatory involvement, a punch biopsy was performed. Histopathologic examination revealed a fairly unremarkable epidermis and a dense dermal inflammatory infiltrate that was present both in the superficial and deep dermis (Figure 2). The inflammatory cells, which appeared to be predominantly comprised of lymphocytes, had a predilection for the vasculature but also were observed within the interstitial dermis. Additionally, mucin appeared to be slightly increased in the deep dermis. The lymphocytic phenotype was confirmed by immunohistochemical studies for CD20 and CD3. The most likely possibilities for this reaction pattern were LET, Jessner lymphocytic infiltrate of the skin (JLIS), gyrate erythema, and lymphoma; however, the immunohistochemical studies effectively ruled out lymphoma. Additionally, there was pronounced dermal mucin noted in the specimen. The patient was diagnosed with LET of the scalp based on the constellation of findings.

Comment

The classification of LET as a single unique entity or disease process sui generis has been in flux in the last decade. Its similarities to JLIS and other forms of chronic cutaneous lupus erythematosus (CCLE) have brought debate.^4-6 In 1930, Gougerot and Burnier⁷ documented the first case of LET in the literature, describing smooth, infiltrated, erythematous lesions with no desquamation or other superficial changes seen in 5 patients.

In 2000, interest in LET and other forms of CCLE was increasing, and reports in the literature paralleled. That year, Kuhn et al⁴ reported 40 cases of LET, characterizing the clinical and histological features of each case to demonstrate that LET should be separate from other forms of CCLE. Until then, it is likely that many lesions that should have been classified as LET were instead classified as various forms of CCLE. The investigators maintained that LET also should be distinct from JLIS because it is associated with UV exposure.⁴ Kuhn et al⁸ reviewed phototesting in 60 patients with LET in 2001 and confirmed this subset was the most photosensitive type of lupus erythematosus.

In general, the histopathologic and immunohistochemical studies in LET and JLIS can be quite similar. Relatively distinguishing histopathologic findings in JLIS include no evidence of epidermal atrophy, basal vacuolar change, or follicular plugging, as well as negative immunofluorescence studies. Both entities show a predominantly T-cell population with a smaller component of B cells and thus a distinction cannot be made based on relative proportions of T and B cells in lesions.²

In 2003, Alexiades-Armenakas et al⁶ determined immunohistochemical criteria for LET, finding a predominance of T cells and more CD4 lymphocytes than CD8 lymphocytes with a mean ratio of roughly 3 to 1. Their study results maintained LET should be classified as a form of CCLE due to the chronicity of the lesions, the serologic profile with negative anti–double-stranded DNA, anticentromere, anti-Smith, anti-Ro/Sjögren syndrome antigen A, anti-La/Sjögren syndrome antigen B, and anti-nuclear ribonucleoprotein antibodies and the rare association with systemic disease.⁶ This conclusion was further solidified by a review published that same year citing unique histopathological features when compared to subacute cutaneous LE and discoid lupus erythematosus.⁵

This case illustrates the importance of histologic evaluation in determining the correct diagnosis in a patient with alopecia areata recalcitrant to treatment. Including LET in the differential of alopecic patches on the scalp could prove beneficial for patients, as LET responds well to antimalarial drugs and photoprotection.⁹ This patient had a normal antinuclear antibody panel and no signs or symptoms of systemic lupus. It was recommended that she avoid sun exposure and begin treatment with hydroxychloroquine but she declined. At a follow-up visit 6 months later she reported the lesions had improved, but a permanent wig had been sewn over the area, so it could not be examined.

Lupus erythematosus tumidus (LET) is a relatively rare condition but may simply be underdiagnosed in the literature. It presents as urticarialike papules and plaques in sun-exposed areas, characterized by induration and erythema. Lesions occur on the face, neck, upper extremities, and trunk and heal without scarring.^1,2 Rarely, lesions can show fine scaling and associated pruritus, but most often the lesions are asymptomatic.³

Case Report

A 45-year-old woman presented with 2 asymptomatic self-described bald spots on the top of the head of 2 months’ duration. The patient denied prior treatment of the lesions and noted one patch was resolving. She reported no involvement of the eyebrows, eyelashes, and axillary and pubic hair. A review of systems was negative. The patient denied personal or family history of lupus, thyroid disease, or vitiligo.

Clinical examination revealed a 1.1-cm round patch of nonscarring alopecia on the right vertex scalp and a 0.9-cm round patch of nonscarring alopecia with moderate hair regrowth on the left vertex scalp. There was no erythema, scaling, or induration. The rest of the scalp was normal in appearance and the eyebrows and eyelashes were uninvolved. The patient was diagnosed with alopecia areata and was treated with 10 mg/mL of intralesional triamcinolone once monthly for 4 months.

The patient initially showed improvement with moderate hair regrowth. After 4 months of treatment, she developed 3 new 1- to 1.5-cm erythematous alopecic patches on the vertex scalp and had worsening in the initial patches (Figure 1). Given the resistance to standard therapy and the onset of multiple new areas with evidence of inflammatory involvement, a punch biopsy was performed. Histopathologic examination revealed a fairly unremarkable epidermis and a dense dermal inflammatory infiltrate that was present both in the superficial and deep dermis (Figure 2). The inflammatory cells, which appeared to be predominantly comprised of lymphocytes, had a predilection for the vasculature but also were observed within the interstitial dermis. Additionally, mucin appeared to be slightly increased in the deep dermis. The lymphocytic phenotype was confirmed by immunohistochemical studies for CD20 and CD3. The most likely possibilities for this reaction pattern were LET, Jessner lymphocytic infiltrate of the skin (JLIS), gyrate erythema, and lymphoma; however, the immunohistochemical studies effectively ruled out lymphoma. Additionally, there was pronounced dermal mucin noted in the specimen. The patient was diagnosed with LET of the scalp based on the constellation of findings.

Comment

The classification of LET as a single unique entity or disease process sui generis has been in flux in the last decade. Its similarities to JLIS and other forms of chronic cutaneous lupus erythematosus (CCLE) have brought debate.^4-6 In 1930, Gougerot and Burnier⁷ documented the first case of LET in the literature, describing smooth, infiltrated, erythematous lesions with no desquamation or other superficial changes seen in 5 patients.

In 2000, interest in LET and other forms of CCLE was increasing, and reports in the literature paralleled. That year, Kuhn et al⁴ reported 40 cases of LET, characterizing the clinical and histological features of each case to demonstrate that LET should be separate from other forms of CCLE. Until then, it is likely that many lesions that should have been classified as LET were instead classified as various forms of CCLE. The investigators maintained that LET also should be distinct from JLIS because it is associated with UV exposure.⁴ Kuhn et al⁸ reviewed phototesting in 60 patients with LET in 2001 and confirmed this subset was the most photosensitive type of lupus erythematosus.

In general, the histopathologic and immunohistochemical studies in LET and JLIS can be quite similar. Relatively distinguishing histopathologic findings in JLIS include no evidence of epidermal atrophy, basal vacuolar change, or follicular plugging, as well as negative immunofluorescence studies. Both entities show a predominantly T-cell population with a smaller component of B cells and thus a distinction cannot be made based on relative proportions of T and B cells in lesions.²

In 2003, Alexiades-Armenakas et al⁶ determined immunohistochemical criteria for LET, finding a predominance of T cells and more CD4 lymphocytes than CD8 lymphocytes with a mean ratio of roughly 3 to 1. Their study results maintained LET should be classified as a form of CCLE due to the chronicity of the lesions, the serologic profile with negative anti–double-stranded DNA, anticentromere, anti-Smith, anti-Ro/Sjögren syndrome antigen A, anti-La/Sjögren syndrome antigen B, and anti-nuclear ribonucleoprotein antibodies and the rare association with systemic disease.⁶ This conclusion was further solidified by a review published that same year citing unique histopathological features when compared to subacute cutaneous LE and discoid lupus erythematosus.⁵

This case illustrates the importance of histologic evaluation in determining the correct diagnosis in a patient with alopecia areata recalcitrant to treatment. Including LET in the differential of alopecic patches on the scalp could prove beneficial for patients, as LET responds well to antimalarial drugs and photoprotection.⁹ This patient had a normal antinuclear antibody panel and no signs or symptoms of systemic lupus. It was recommended that she avoid sun exposure and begin treatment with hydroxychloroquine but she declined. At a follow-up visit 6 months later she reported the lesions had improved, but a permanent wig had been sewn over the area, so it could not be examined.