Pathologic Hairpulling, Skin Picking, and Nail Biting

Pathologic hairpulling (HP), skin picking (SP), and nail biting (NB) were identified as repetitive behaviors causing significant physical damage and distress, yet they received little attention in psychiatric literature. The article reviewed research on these behaviors, noting their similarities in phenomenology, triggers, and consequences, suggesting a joint diagnostic categorization. Sufferers often hid their self-inflicted damage due to shame, complicating diagnosis. The behaviors ranged from mild to severe, indicating underrecognition. The article called for more research on the etiology of HP, SP, and NB to develop effective treatments and prevention strategies.