Hypohidrotic (Or Anhidrotic) Ectodermal Dysplasia—an Appraisal of Diagnostic Methods*

A study has been carried out in 20 members of 5 unrelated families to confirm the diagnosis of hypohidrotic ectodermal dysplasia (HED) in 5 young males, and to detect possible female carriers. The history and the clinical examination were supplemented by sweat testing and plastic imprinting over selected areas of the palm, pore-counting, and dermatoglyphic analysis. Findings of importance include definitely abnormal imprints in 3 mothers and in 4 affected individuals, good sweat gland function in one of the affected individuals, and unilateral or bilateral high maximal and angles in all affected individuals and in 4 mothers.