New Jersey State Board Esthetics Practice Exam

What condition is described as abnormal hair growth?

1. Alopecia

2. Hypertrichosis

3. Hirsutism

4. Elephantiasis

The correct answer is: Hypertrichosis

The condition characterized by abnormal hair growth is hypertrichosis. This refers to excessive hair growth in places where body hair is normally minimal or absent. It can occur anywhere on the body and is not limited to androgen-dependent areas, which means it can affect both males and females regardless of hormonal levels. Hypertrichosis can be congenital (present at birth) or acquired later in life due to factors such as certain medications or metabolic disorders. Hirsutism, while also related to abnormal hair growth, specifically refers to excessive hair growth in women in areas typically male-patterned, such as the face and body. This condition is often influenced by hormonal imbalances, particularly androgens, and does not encompass the broader range of hair growth issues covered by hypertrichosis. Alopecia is a term for hair loss rather than abnormal hair growth, while elephantiasis is related to severe swelling (usually of limbs and genitals) due to lymphatic obstruction caused by parasitic infections, unrelated to hair growth patterns. Therefore, hypertrichosis is the most accurate term for the general condition of abnormal hair growth.