TLDR Thorough patient interviews are crucial to identify self-inflicted hair loss.
A 30-year-old woman with trichotillomania presented with a nonhealing scalp ulcer after initially seeking dermatological treatment. Despite using antibiotics and ointments, her condition persisted. Upon psychiatric evaluation, she admitted to hair-pulling triggered by stress, leading to temporary relief. She exhibited moderate depressive and anxiety symptoms, scoring 17 on the Hamilton Depression Rating Scale and 14 on the Hamilton Anxiety Rating Scale. Treatment included clomipramine, N-acetylcysteine, and habit reversal training, which improved her symptoms. The case underscores the importance of a multidisciplinary approach and awareness in diagnosing and treating trichotillomania, especially when patients are unaware or uncooperative.
83 citations,
January 2001 in “American journal of clinical dermatology” Clomipramine may significantly reduce hair-pulling in Trichotillomania, but more research is needed on treatments and early onset cases.
May 2017 in “InTech eBooks” Hair pulling disorder is treated with therapy and medication; hair loss from tension can be reversed if caught early.
5 citations,
November 2011 in “Expert Review of Dermatology” The document concludes that early diagnosis and a comprehensive treatment plan are crucial for managing hair loss in children, with a focus on both medical and psychological support.
May 2017 in “InTech eBooks” Early treatment of children's hair loss, which can be caused by various factors, is important due to its emotional impact.
47 citations,
December 2020 in “Journal of the European Academy of Dermatology and Venereology” The document concludes that understanding and treating hair loss requires recognizing its various types and using appropriate diagnostic tools and treatments.
2 citations,
October 2015 in “Primary Care: Clinics in Office Practice” Doctors should diagnose hair loss by examining the patient and possibly doing tests, and then treat it based on the type, which may prevent permanent hair loss.
