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Published on: March 9, 2015
Trichotillomania Incognito: Two Case Reports and Literature Review
Mariana Rita de Novaes Fernandes1, Daniel Fernandes Melo1, Colombina Vincenzi2
1Dermatology Department, University of State of Rio de Janeiro (UERJ), Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.
Insights
Trichotillomania, a hairpulling disorder, can occur in children without visible patches. Early recognition using trichoscopy is crucial for managing this distressing condition and supporting psychosocial development.
Area of Science:
- Dermatology
- Pediatrics
- Psychiatry
Background:
- Trichotillomania is a compulsive disorder causing repetitive hairpulling, often leading to patchy alopecia.
- It commonly affects children aged 9-13, significantly impacting their psychosocial well-being.
Observation:
- This paper presents two pediatric cases of trichotillomania exhibiting no apparent patches of hair loss.
- The absence of typical alopecia presented a diagnostic challenge.
Findings:
- Trichoscopy, a non-invasive diagnostic tool, proved essential in identifying subtle signs of hair pulling.
- Early recognition through trichoscopy facilitated appropriate management strategies for these unique cases.
Implications:
- These cases highlight the importance of considering trichotillomania even without visible alopecia in pediatric patients.
- Trichoscopy aids in the early diagnosis and management of hair disorders, improving patient outcomes and psychosocial health.
Abstract:
Trichotillomania is a compulsive disorder characterized by repetitive hairpulling. It is an important cause of patchy alopecia, especially in children between 9 and 13 years of age. The aim of this paper is to report 2 pediatric cases presenting with trichotillomania without patches. This condition may be extremely distressful, impacting psychosocial development of children. In these case reports, we reinforce the relevance of trichoscopy in hair disorder evaluation, which allowed early recognition to better advise and conduct these unique pediatric cases.
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