Silver hair in a neonate: a tale of 2 fatal cases

Abstract

Silver hair in a neonate is an uncommon occurrence. The aetiology of this condition is varied and is associated with immunodeficiency disorders such as Griscelli syndrome and Chédiak-Higashi syndrome. A preterm neonate with Griscelli syndrome type 2 might present with just silver colour staining of hair including the lanugo hair with no other complications. In those with associated systemic abnormalities such as congenital pulmonary airway malformation, further evaluation for conditions such as Menke-Kinke hair syndrome is required. In this case series, we describe two unique cases of silver hair syndrome in preterm neonates with their clinical description, course in the hospital, role of hair mount and genetic testing for further identification and diagnosis of this disorder.

Keywords: Griscelli syndrome; immunodeficiency disorders; silver hair.

Image 1

(A–D) of case report 1. All show silvery white hair on the scalp and the rest of the body from different views present.

Image 2

(A and B) of case report 2. (A) Silver-white staining of lanugo hair noted over the face. (B)Silver-white hair noted over upper back and arm.

Image 3

A chest CT image (of case report 2) ill-defined isolated cystic fluid-filled area in the left upper and lower lobe suggestive of CPAM (black arrow).

Image 4

Hair mount images (A): Scattered large irregular melanin pigments distributed in a non-uniform manner-from case report 1. (B) Hair mount and light microscopy showing scanty melanin pigments with no clumping-from case report 2.