White piedra hair loss, also known as piedra alba, is a fungal infection of the hair shaft that affects the scalp and other hairy areas of the body, such as the beard and mustache. It is caused by the fungus Trichosporon beigelii, which thrives in warm, humid climates. White piedra hair loss is characterized by the formation of small, hard, white or cream-colored nodules on the hair shaft, which can cause the hair to break and fall out. The infection is usually asymptomatic, but in some cases, it can cause itching and irritation of the scalp.
White piedra hair loss is a common infection in tropical and subtropical regions, but it can also occur in temperate climates. It is more common in people with long hair, and it is thought to be spread through contact with contaminated hair or hairbrushes. The infection is usually treated with antifungal shampoos or creams, and in severe cases, oral antifungal medications may be necessary.
