The ultrastructural characteristics of the hair bulb of segmented heterochromia in the scalp hair.

Segmented heterochromia is a pigmentary disorder characterized by alternating dark and light segments on each hair shaft. Our aim was to observe the ultrastructure of hair shafts and bulbs to understand the pathogenesis of the disease. Biopsy specimens including normal or diseased hair follicles were prepared for transmission electron microscopy.

Segmented heterochromia in scalp hair.

Segmented heterochromia of scalp hair is characterized by the irregularly alternating segmentation of hair into dark and light bands and is known to be associated with iron deficiency anemia. The authors report the case of an 11-year-old boy with segmented heterochromia associated with iron deficiency anemia. After 11 months of iron replacement, the boy's segmented heterochromic hair recovered completely.