Trichotillomania
Alternate Names : Compulsive Hair Pulling
DefinitionTrichotillomania is hair loss caused by compulsive pulling and or twisting of the hair until it breaks off. The hair may be lost in round patches or diffusely across the scalp. The effect is a moth-eaten appearance. Other hairy areas may be plucked, such as the eyebrows, eyelashes, or body hair.
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Overview, Causes, & Risk Factors
Trichotillomania is a type of compulsive behavior and its causes are not clearly understood. Symptoms usually begin before the age of 17. It may affect as much as 4% of the population. People with this disorder will often seek the help of a dermatologist initially. Women are 4 times more likely to be affected than men.
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