Date of Presentation
5-5-2022 12:00 AM
College
School of Osteopathic Medicine
Poster Abstract
Trichotillomania (TTM) is characterized by repetitive pulling of one’s hair leading to hair loss and problems in social, occupational, or other important areas of functioning. Often individuals with TTM try to decrease or stop hair pulling, however are often unsuccessful without treatment. Community prevalence studies suggest that TTM is a common disorder with point prevalence estimate of 0.5% to 2.0% and with significant psychological comorbidity. Of note, people with TTM are often embarrassed about their condition, so epidemiology data may be underestimated compared to the true prevalence of this condition. The female to male ratio for this condition is 4:1.
If untreated, trichotillomania is a chronic illness that often results in substantial psychosocial dysfunction and in rare cases, can lead to life-threatening medical problems. Thus, control of the hair pulling is critical for maintaining long-term health and quality of life. Olanzapine is one of several treatment options for TTM. It is important for psychiatrists to work with their patients to determine which treatment is best for them.
Keywords
Trichotillomania, Olanzapine, Mental Disorders, Case Reports
Disciplines
Heterocyclic Compounds | Medicine and Health Sciences | Mental Disorders | Pathological Conditions, Signs and Symptoms | Psychiatric and Mental Health | Psychiatry
Document Type
Poster
Included in
Heterocyclic Compounds Commons, Mental Disorders Commons, Pathological Conditions, Signs and Symptoms Commons, Psychiatric and Mental Health Commons, Psychiatry Commons
Treating Trichotillomania with Olanzapine
Trichotillomania (TTM) is characterized by repetitive pulling of one’s hair leading to hair loss and problems in social, occupational, or other important areas of functioning. Often individuals with TTM try to decrease or stop hair pulling, however are often unsuccessful without treatment. Community prevalence studies suggest that TTM is a common disorder with point prevalence estimate of 0.5% to 2.0% and with significant psychological comorbidity. Of note, people with TTM are often embarrassed about their condition, so epidemiology data may be underestimated compared to the true prevalence of this condition. The female to male ratio for this condition is 4:1.
If untreated, trichotillomania is a chronic illness that often results in substantial psychosocial dysfunction and in rare cases, can lead to life-threatening medical problems. Thus, control of the hair pulling is critical for maintaining long-term health and quality of life. Olanzapine is one of several treatment options for TTM. It is important for psychiatrists to work with their patients to determine which treatment is best for them.