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Trichotillomania - Overview

Alternative Names

Compulsive hair pulling

Definition of Trichotillomania:

Trichotillomania is hair loss caused by compulsive pulling or twisting of the hair until it breaks off.

Causes, incidence, and risk factors:

Trichotillomania is a type of compulsive behavior. Its causes are not clearly understood.

It may affect as much as 4% of the population. Women are four times more likely to be affected than men.

People with this disorder often will first seek the help of a doctor who treats skin problems (dermatologist).

  • Reviewed last on: 2/6/2008
  • Christos Ballas, M.D., Attending Psychiatrist, Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc.