Acquired hypertrichosis lanuginosa as a presenting sign of metastatic prostate cancer with rapid resolution after treatment.

Abstract

Acquired hypertrichosis lanuginosa (AHL) is a rare cutaneous disorder that involves spontaneous growth of lanugo-type hair in association with overt or occult malignant neoplasms. Bronchopulmonary and gastrointestinal malignancies are most commonly associated. We report the occurrence of AHL associated with metastatic prostate cancer and its abrupt resolution after bilateral orchiectomy. To our knowledge, this is the first reported case of an association with prostate cancer. The case presented represents a single patient; therefore, the findings and results reported may not be applicable to all patient populations. A variety of cutaneous findings are considered warning indicators of underlying neoplastic disease. Physician awareness of such signs can prompt timely and potentially life-saving investigations and interventions. AHL is regarded as such a sign. Physician awareness of the addition of prostate cancer to the growing list of AHL-associated malignancies provides rationale for appropriate testing and referral.