An abnormal excess of vellus type hair, often darker than usual, is referred to as?

• A. Hirsutism
• B. Hypertrichosis
• C. Alopecia
• D. Epilation

Answer: (B)

The term used to describe an abnormal excess of vellus type hair that is often darker than usual is hypertrichosis. This condition refers to excessive hair growth in areas where hair is not typically abundant or where it is finer, such as on the face or body. In hypertrichosis, the increased hair can be a result of genetic factors, hormonal changes, or other underlying medical conditions, and the hair may resemble vellus hair, which is typically fine and light in color.

Hirsutism, on the other hand, specifically refers to excessive hair growth in women that mimics male-pattern hair growth, primarily due to elevated androgen levels. Alopecia describes hair loss, rather than excess hair growth. Epilation is a hair removal method and not a condition of excess hair growth. Therefore, hypertrichosis is the most accurate term to describe the described condition of having an abnormal excess of darker vellus hair.