Congenital hypotrichosis
From Felipedia
Congenital hypotrichosis has been reported in the Birman, Burmese, Devon rex and Siamese[1].
Generalised congenital hypotrichosis has even been investigated in certain breeds such as the Sphinx.
The mode of influence is autosomal recessive. No sex predisposition has been documented. A few kittens in teh litter are usually affected. Cats are born hairless or with a fine downy coat which falls out during the first weeks of life. Sometimes, a fine coat will develop in the first few months[2]. Other ectodermal abnormalities (e.g. absence of whiskers, claws or tongue papillae) may be associated with this condition in the Birman. In the Burmese, the thymus has been reported absent[3].
Microscopic examination of a group of hairs demonstrates exclusively small, fine, secondary hairs. Histopathology reveals an absence or reduced number of hair follicles, or hair follicle hypoplasia. Similar abnormalities occur in the sebaceous and sweat glands.
There is no specific treatment. Topical treatment with highly emollient keratomodulating shapoos and preparations containing essential fatty acids can improve skin quality.
Resolution usually occurs at puberty or some time before.
