Trichotillomania

Alternative names:

hair pulling; trichologia; trichomania

Treatment:

Shaving the head saves the hair but does not get at the root of the problem. Parents can help by recognizing the problem and getting involved in treatment. Psychological evaluation may be recommended.

Expectations (prognosis):

Typically, trichotillomania is limited to younger children who tend to outgrow the behavior.

Complications:

Continued damage to the hair may produce irreversible damage and hair loss.