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Trichotillomania



Trichotillomania - top of the head
Trichotillomania - top of the head


Trichotillomania

Alternative Names:

Compulsive hair pulling
Treatment:

No expert consensus exists, however various medications, particularly antidepressants like fluoxetine (Prozac) have been shown effective in reducing symptoms.


Expectations (prognosis):

Typically, trichotillomania is limited to younger children who tend to outgrow the behavior. For most, the hair pulling is time-limited to 12 months. Early onset (before age 6) is associated with a better prognosis.


Complications:

Complications usually arise when the pulled-out hair is eaten (trichophagia). This can result in intestinal obstruction or lead to malnutrition.




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