Trichotillomania and Skin-Picking Disorder: An Update

Overview

Journal Focus (Am Psychiatr Publ)

Specialty Medical Education

Date 2022 Jun 24

PMID 35747295

Authors

Jon E Grant

Samuel R Chamberlain

Affiliations

Soon will be listed here.

Abstract

Trichotillomania (hair pulling disorder) and skin-picking (excoriation) disorder are common neuropsychiatric disorders (each with a point prevalence of around 2%) but are underrecognized by professionals. Affected individuals repeatedly pull out their own hair or pick at their skin, and these symptoms not only have a negative impact on these individuals because of the time they occupy but can also lead to considerable physical disfigurement, with concomitant loss of self-esteem and avoidance of social activities and intimate relationships. The behaviors may also have serious physical consequences. Trichotillomania and skin picking frequently co-occur, and both disorders commonly present with co-occurring depression, anxiety, impulsive, and obsessive-compulsive disorders. Behavioral therapy currently appears to be the most effective treatment for both. Pharmacotherapy, in the form of -acetylcysteine or olanzapine, may also play a role in treatment.

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