Plica polonica in a patient on chemotherapy: A case report with review of literature

Plica polonica (plica neuropathica) is an uncommon entity characterized by irreversible twisting and matting of hair resulting in a hard impermeable mass of keratin. Although the exact mechanism is not fully understood, it has been attribute to longitudinal splitting or weathering of hair shaft due to vigorous friction and frequent use of harsh shampoos and harsh cleansers and/or due to keeping long hair with poor hair care or neglect, parasitic infection. We describe an unusual case of plica polonica occurring in a patient of lung adenocarcinoma on chemotherapy and review the literature. Anagen effluvium due to chemotherapy (paclitaxel and carboplatin) and use of an uncustomary shampoo by the patient are the causative factors for matting of the hair.