Trichodynia: An Update on Definition, Etiopathogenesis, Diagnosis, and Treatment

Trichodynia was elucidated as a distressing, painful sensation of the scalp hair and/or the skin of the scalp that becomes more vigorous when hairs are touched without an underlying cutaneous disease and is frequently associated with hair shedding. It was often more in women than men, directly correlating with hair loss. The etiology of trichodynia is not well-known, but it may be multifactorial. Several possible hypotheses can explain the etiopathogenesis of trichodynia, including enhanced expression of neuropeptide substance P with perifollicular inflammation, psychiatric diseases, and nutritional deficiencies. Currently, there is no specific and effective therapy for trichodynia. Various available treatments included L-cystine-containing oral preparation, topical corticosteroid, low-dose antidepressant, oral propranolol, and botulinum toxin injection. This review article highlights an update of the definition, etiopathogenesis, diagnosis, and treatment of trichodynia.