In 1648, Aldrovandus first documented a family with hypertrichosis. Originally from the Canary Islands, Petrus Gonzales was brought to France as a curiosity for the nobles.

Where does hypertrichosis originate?

The hairy family of Burma has a 4-generation pedigree of congenital hypertrichosis lanuginosa dating back to 1826. Earlier generations were in the employ of the Ava court, but later generations often earned a living as sideshow attractions in the 1880s.

Is hypertrichosis rare?

Hypertrichosis is a rare and curious condition that causes excessive hair growth anywhere on a person's body. Hypertrichosis is sometimes known as werewolf syndrome.