Hypertrichosis must be assessed in the light of the type of hair involved, the pattern of abnormal hair growth, associated abnormalities, age of onset, and family history including ethnic background. Associated diseases and the associated medication must be considered, as drug-induced hair growth is not uncommon. Although disorders of the hair usually have little medical significance and involve no interference with the general physical condition, they may be present in congenital syndromes or be associated with other abnormalities and metabolic disorders. The individual psychological impact of excessive hair growth also has a bearing on the problem with regard to its management. We describe in a 7-year-old girl and an 8-year-old boy a state of prepubertal hypertrichosis, characterized in otherwise normal children by a form of generalized excessive terminal hair growth which does not conform to the pattern of (androgen-mediated) hirsutism. The nosology of this form of excessive hair growth is discussed. The question whether it represents an atavistic trait is controverted.