Disorders

Trichotillomania

Gene that causes Tricotillomania identified by CHG Scientists

• Trichotillomania Research Review
  
• Trichotillomania Study Participation
  
• Additional Trichotillomania Information
  

Trichotillomania Research Review

Trichotillomania is a psychological disorder that produces an uncontrollable desire to pull out one's hair, and the cause of trichotillomania is unknown. Some studies have found that relatives of people with trichotillomania have an increased chance to have trichotillomania. This tendency suggests that there may be a genetic influence or cause for trichotillomania. Further research is necessary to understand whether trichotillomania has a genetic component.

We hope that our research will help clarify possible causes of trichotillomania. Improving understanding of trichotillomania is important in breaking myths about this disorder. Finding the cause may also help scientists develop better treatments. Our research goal is to locate and identify any potential susceptibility genes for trichotillomania. We are currently enrolling families with one or more members diagnosed with trichotillomania into our genetic research study. 

Trichotillomania Study Team
Finding genes requires the efforts of a team of researchers and study participants. Individuals with trichotillomania and their families are the most important members of this team. 

Duke
Allison Ashley-Koch, PhD	Principal Investigator
Shelley Keatts	Study Coordinator
University of South Carolina
Harry Wright, MD, MBA	Investigator

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Trichotillomania Study Participation

We are currently enrolling families with one or more members diagnosed with trichotillomania. Study participation involves:

• Family medical history interview
  
• Interviews and questionnaires about trichotillomania and related disorders
  
• Blood samples and photographs from individuals with trichotillomania
  
• Blood samples from family members without trichotillomania

There is no cost to participate in this research study. All interviews, questionnaires, and blood samples will be completed or obtained by phone, mail, or in person during visits to your home by study personnel. Therefore, study participants do not need to travel to Duke.

In our laboratory, DNA will be extracted from blood samples and compared within and between families. In this study, our researchers look for common shared segments of DNA in individuals with trichotillomania. These common shared DNA segments may contain genes associated with trichotillomania. Once we locate these regions, we will use other genetic research methods to narrow these regions and study specific genes.

All information obtained is confidential and is not shared with any individuals outside the Duke Trichotillomania Research Group, nor is it part of the Duke medical record. 

There are no anticipated benefits to participants in this research study. Results of genetic or other testing from this research study are not available to participants, due to federal regulations prohibiting the release of genetic testing performed at research laboratories. Study participants can withdraw from the study at any time by contacting the Duke Trichotillomania Research team by phone and in writing.

For more information about study participation, please contact:

Shelley Keatts
Trichotillomania Study Coordinator
Phone: (919) 684-0661
Phone: (toll free): (800) DUKE-CHG
E-mail: ttm@chg.duhs.duke.edu

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Additional Trichotillomania Information

The Trichotillomania Learning Center (TLC)
303 Potrero #51
Santa Cruz, CA 95060
Phone: 831-457-1004
E-mail: info@trich.org

Trichotillomania / Family Village Library


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