Children with Trichotillomania During the COVID-19 Outbreak

The letter to the editor discusses an observed increase in cases of trichotillomania, a condition characterized by repetitive hair pulling resulting in significant hair loss, among children during the COVID-19 pandemic. The authors report three cases of girls aged 12 to 14 who presented with extensive hair loss due to trichotillomania, which they attributed to boredom from not attending school for several months due to pandemic measures. The letter suggests that the lack of face-to-face education and social interaction is negatively affecting children's mental health, leading to an increase in trichotillomania and potentially other psychiatric skin diseases. The authors also reference a study of 460 patients with body-focused repetitive behaviors, where 70% had repetitive hair pulling and an increase in symptoms during the pandemic was noted. Additionally, they mention an increase in telogen effluvium, another form of non-scarring hair loss, due to the psychological impact of the pandemic. The letter concludes by expressing concern that the number of patients with hair-pulling disorders may continue to rise if the pandemic prolongs and children remain out of school.