Diagnosis and treatment of trichotillomania

Trichotillomania is characterized by repetitive hair pulling resulting in significant hair loss, distress, and social and/or occupational impairment. Co-occurring disorders are common among those with trichotillomania. Stress, emotional dysregulation, positive and negative reinforcement, and genetics have been explored as factors in the etiology of the disorder. Furthermore, animal models have been developed for investigating the possible development of trichotillomania, while brain imaging studies have provided evidence that several brain regions may be involved in trichotillomania. Psychological and pharmacological treatment data are incomplete, but behavioral therapy, N-acetyl cysteine and olanzapine may be helpful for individuals with trichotillomania.