Psoriasis and other diffuse inflammatory diseases of the scalp can cau
se a unique physical finding that we call the ''teepee sign'' because
the hair forms pyramidal tufts at regular intervals that resemble an A
merican Indian encampment, A pathological mechanism for this finding i
s proposed, with the description of two cases in Air Force basic train
ees, one of a severe seborrheic dermatitis and the other psoriasis, Th
e significance with regard to physical qualification for entry into mi
litary service is discussed.