[Trichotillomania--case report]

This paper presents a case of trichotillomania involving the eyelids and eyebrows. This is a chronic illness that may be difficult to treat. The most common approach consists of pharmacotherapy and psychotherapy combination. Trichotillomania, classified in DSM IV as an impulse control disorder is characterized by an irresistible urge to pull hair, accompanied by a build up of tension and subsequent sense of relief. The mean age of onset is 8 years for males and 12 for females. Hair is pulled from a variety of sites, most frequently from the scalp but also eyelashes, eyebrows, beard, armpit and the pubic area.