Trichotillomania And Trichophagia: Modern Diagnostic And Therapeutic Methods

Trichotillomania, a chronic impulse control disorder characterized by compulsive hair pulling, predominantly affects adolescent females and poses diagnostic and treatment challenges. This study reviewed current diagnostic and therapeutic methods, highlighting the importance of collaboration between dermatologists and psychiatrists. Trichoscopy was suggested as a diagnostic aid. Treatments reviewed included psychotherapy, N-acetylcysteine, naltrexone, topiramate, atypical neuroleptics, and SSRIs, but most clinical trials involved small patient groups, making it difficult to compare effectiveness. The study emphasized the need for better-designed, long-term studies to optimize treatment. Trichophagia, often associated with trichotillomania, can lead to serious health risks like intestinal obstruction.