Piedra
Piedra
Piedra (pronunciation: pee-AY-drah) is a term used in the medical field to refer to a condition of the hair. It is derived from the Spanish word 'piedra', which means 'stone'. This condition is characterized by the presence of hard nodules, or 'stones', on the hair shafts.
Types of Piedra
There are two main types of piedra: Black Piedra and White Piedra.
- Black Piedra is caused by the fungus Piedraia hortae. It is more commonly found in tropical climates and is characterized by hard, black nodules on the hair shaft.
- White Piedra is caused by several species of the fungus Trichosporon. It is characterized by soft, white or tan nodules on the hair shaft. This type of piedra is more common in temperate climates.
Symptoms
The primary symptom of piedra is the presence of nodules on the hair shaft. These nodules can cause the hair to become weak and break easily. Other symptoms may include itching and a change in the texture of the hair.
Treatment
Treatment for piedra typically involves the use of antifungal medications. In severe cases, it may be necessary to shave or cut the affected hair.
Prevention
Prevention of piedra involves maintaining good hygiene and avoiding the sharing of hair care products. It is also important to keep the hair dry, as the fungi that cause piedra thrive in moist environments.
Related Terms
- Dermatology: The branch of medicine dealing with the skin, nails, hair and its diseases.
- Fungus: A group of organisms that includes yeasts, molds, and mushrooms.
- Nodule: A small lump of cells that can form in different parts of the body.
- Antifungal: A medication used to treat fungal infections.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Piedra
- Wikipedia's article - Piedra
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