Definition: Lanugo hairs are the fine hairs found on a fetus. They are normally shed before birth and replaced by vellus hair by 36 to 40 weeks gestation. The presence of lanugo hairs at delivery is a sign of prematurity.
Pronunciation: luh-NOO-go
Lanugo Hair
By Heather Brannon, MD, About.com Guide
Updated: September 10, 2007
About.com Health's Disease and Condition content is reviewed by the Medical Review Board
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