Dermatol. praxi. 2011;5(2):103-104

Trichotillomania from the perspective of a dermatologist

MUDr.Michaela Havlíčková

Dermatovenerologická klinika FNKV, Praha

Trichotillomania is an impulsive malfunction, which makes patients chronically pull out their hair from the scalp or from the other parts

of body. It can occur at any age but most commonly in childhood and reaches its maximum in two age groups – preschool age and early

puberty age. The objective of the dermatologist in the diagnosis of trichotillomania is primarily set a fast and correct diagnosis. In differential

diagnosis is necessary to distinguish especially alopecia areata. Psychologist and psychiatrist is then entrusted with the treatment.

The solution is a regular psychotherapy, preferably in combination with antidepressants and antipsychotics. Very important is empathy

of psychiatrist or terapeut so that patient wouldn´t loose trust to him. The therapy takes a long time and the relapses are unfortunately

frequent, especially when the patient is under unusual mental stress.

Keywords: trichotillomania, alopecia areata, trichophagia

Published: June 1, 2011  Show citation