Child abuse and trichotillomania
BMJ 2005; 330 doi: https://doi.org/10.1136/bmj.330.7482.83 (Published 06 January 2005) Cite this as: BMJ 2005;330:83- A Saraswat, assistant professor (abirsaraswat@yahoo.com)1
- 1 Department of Dermatology, Era's Lucknow Medical College and Hospital, Lucknow 226 016, India
- Accepted 8 September 2004
Introduction
A 12 year old boy presented with two patches of hair loss on his scalp (figure). A clinical and histopathological diagnosis of trichotillomania was made. On follow up after taking a detailed history, the boy revealed that the hair was being pulled by an abusive teacher during tuition after school. I found two more children similarly abused by the teacher. I discuss the importance of this under-recognised pattern of child abuse and its similarity to trichotillomania.
Localised patch of hair loss on the scalp
Child abuse has varied manifestations. Physical abuse of a child often results in identifiable dermatological signs, which can pinpoint the diagnosis. Abuse can closely resemble other dermatoses, however, resulting in diagnostic errors.
Trichotillomania is a condition currently classified as an impulse control disorder, which is characterised by repetitive pulling of one's own hair resulting in alopecia.
Case report
A 12 year old boy was referred by his family physician to the dermatology outpatient department with a complaint of partial hair loss on his scalp that was noticed one week before. On examination, there were two patches of partial alopecia on the temporovertical scalp measuring 2 cm by 2 cm and 3 cm by 3 cm. The …
Log in
Log in using your username and password
Log in through your institution
Subscribe from £173 *
Subscribe and get access to all BMJ articles, and much more.
* For online subscription
Access this article for 1 day for:
£38 / $45 / €42 (excludes VAT)
You can download a PDF version for your personal record.