Free Republic

Alma Gamongan has made headlines with her startling claim that her son's unique appearance, characterised by excessive facial and body hair, was a consequence of her pregnancy diet. What does Jaren Gamongan suffer from? According to Alma, she indulged in the consumption of a wild cat, a local delicacy, to satisfy intense cravings during her pregnancy with her son, Jaren Gamongan, now two years old. The superstition surrounding Jaren's condition, commonly referred to as "werewolf syndrome", emerged from Alma's belief that her dietary choice had invoked a curse."I worry so much for him when it's time for him to go...

Chinese scientists have found the genetic marker for congenital generalized hypertrichosis terminalis (CGHT), a disorder that is often referred to as “werewolf syndrome.” Those who suffer from the hereditary disease are typified by thick, dark hair that grows all over the body and face. They may also have “a broad, flat nose, large ears, a large mouth, and thick lips, and, occasionally, an enlarged head and jaw.” [Science] Other than the fact that it is hereditable, the source of the disorder has been a mystery until now. The fact that it is so highly hereditable points to a likely suspect:...

It's not easy being a preteen "wolf boy" - but scientists at Columbia University are confident they've finally found the silver bullet that can cure one. Pruthviraj Patil, 11, suffers from a rare genetic disorder known as hypertrichosis - or "werewolf syndrome" - which causes a thick coat of hair to grow over every inch of his body except his palms and feet. (edit)When he was born in a village near Mumbai, his mother was told she had given birth to a god, but in school, there have been more bullies than believers. Christiano and her colleagues at Columbia...