INTRODUCTION:
Trichotillomania (TTM) is a condition characterized by repetitive hair
pulling those results in hair loss, distress and disability in daily
functioning [1]. This condition has a global prevalence of 1-2% in
the general population [2,3]. Although TTM is typically considered
an isolated disorder, emerging evidence suggests that it may be
associated with other psychiatric conditions, including
obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), eating disorders (EDs), major
depressive disorder (MDD), anxiety disorders, substance use disorder and
attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) [2–5].
In a recent study predictor of having an OCD in a TTM population were
examined and it was discovered that having an eating disorder diagnosis
was linked to a higher risk for OCD depending on how severe the ED was
[6]. It also suggests that OCD might be a factor in predicting the
prevalence of an eating disorder in TTM populations [7].
Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is also commonly
comorbid with other psychiatric conditions, with up to 75% of adults
with ADHD meeting diagnostic criteria for at least one more psychiatric
disorder [8]. It is a condition that affects the development of the
brain, identified by signs of inattentiveness, hyperactivity, and
impulsivity. In approximately 60% of cases, these symptoms can continue
into adulthood [9]. Despite this growing body of evidence, the
relationship between trichotillomania, bulimia nervosa and ADHD remains
poorly understood. In light of the limited research on this topic, this
case report aims to provide a detailed description of a TTM patient with
comorbid BN, MDD and ADHD.