Overview
Pollitt syndrome, also known as trichothiodystrophy with photosensitivity (or TTD-P), is a very rare inherited condition that affects multiple parts of the body. The name 'trichothiodystrophy' refers to brittle, sulfur-deficient hair, which is one of the most recognizable features of this condition. Pollitt syndrome is considered a form of trichothiodystrophy (TTD) that includes sensitivity to sunlight (photosensitivity) as a key feature. The condition affects the skin, hair, nails, nervous system, and overall growth and development. People with Pollitt syndrome often have very fragile hair that breaks easily and shows a distinctive tiger-tail banding pattern when viewed under a special microscope. Many individuals also experience intellectual disability, delayed development, short stature, and problems with coordination. Because the body has trouble repairing damage caused by ultraviolet (UV) light, the skin can be very sensitive to sun exposure. There is currently no cure for Pollitt syndrome. Treatment focuses on managing symptoms, protecting the skin from sun damage, supporting development through therapies, and monitoring for complications. A team of specialists is usually needed to provide the best care.
Also known as:
Key symptoms:
Brittle, easily broken hair that is low in sulfurSensitivity to sunlight (skin burns easily or reacts badly to UV light)Intellectual disability or learning difficultiesDelayed development (sitting, walking, talking later than expected)Short stature (smaller than average height)Dry, scaly skin (ichthyosis)Fragile or abnormal nailsPoor coordination and balance problemsDistinctive facial features (such as a small head size)Recurrent infections due to a weakened immune system in some casesFertility problems in some individuals
Autosomal recessive
Passed on when both parents carry the same gene change; often skips generations
Neonatal
Begins at or shortly after birth (first 4 weeks)
Treatments
No FDA-approved treatments are currently listed for Pollitt syndrome.
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Specialists
View all specialists →No specialists are currently listed for Pollitt syndrome.
Treatment Centers
8 centersBaylor College of Medicine Rare Disease Center ↗
Baylor College of Medicine
📍 Houston, TX
🏥 NORDStanford Medicine Rare Disease Center ↗
Stanford Medicine
📍 Stanford, CA
🔬 UDNNIH Clinical Center Undiagnosed Diseases Program ↗
National Institutes of Health
📍 Bethesda, MD
🔬 UDNUCLA UDN Clinical Site ↗
UCLA Health
📍 Los Angeles, CA
🔬 UDNBaylor College of Medicine UDN Clinical Site ↗
Baylor College of Medicine
📍 Houston, TX
🔬 UDNHarvard/MGH UDN Clinical Site ↗
Massachusetts General Hospital
📍 Boston, MA
🏥 NORDMayo Clinic Center for Individualized Medicine ↗
Mayo Clinic
📍 Rochester, MN
👤 Mayo Clinic Center for Individualized Medicine
🏥 NORDUCLA Rare Disease Day Program ↗
UCLA Health
📍 Los Angeles, CA
Travel Grants
No travel grants are currently matched to Pollitt syndrome.
Community
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Caregiver Resources
NORD Caregiver Resources
Support, advocacy, and financial assistance for caregivers of rare disease patients.
Mental Health Support
Rare disease caregiving can be isolating. Connect with counseling and peer support.
Family & Caregiver Grants
Financial assistance programs specifically for caregivers of rare disease patients.
Social Security Disability
Learn how rare disease patients may qualify for SSDI/SSI benefits.
Questions for your doctor
Bring these to your next appointment
- Q1.Which specific gene mutation does my child have, and what does that mean for their prognosis?,What level of sun protection is needed, and are there specific products or clothing you recommend?,What developmental therapies should we start, and how often should they happen?,Are there any clinical trials or research studies we could participate in?,What signs of complications should prompt us to seek emergency care?,How often should we have follow-up appointments, and with which specialists?,Are other family members at risk, and should they be tested?
Common questions about Pollitt syndrome
What is Pollitt syndrome?
Pollitt syndrome, also known as trichothiodystrophy with photosensitivity (or TTD-P), is a very rare inherited condition that affects multiple parts of the body. The name 'trichothiodystrophy' refers to brittle, sulfur-deficient hair, which is one of the most recognizable features of this condition. Pollitt syndrome is considered a form of trichothiodystrophy (TTD) that includes sensitivity to sunlight (photosensitivity) as a key feature. The condition affects the skin, hair, nails, nervous system, and overall growth and development. People with Pollitt syndrome often have very fragile hair t
How is Pollitt syndrome inherited?
Pollitt syndrome follows a autosomal recessive inheritance pattern. Genetic counseling can help families understand recurrence risk and testing options.
At what age does Pollitt syndrome typically begin?
Typical onset of Pollitt syndrome is neonatal. Age of onset can vary across affected individuals.