Short answer · Medically reviewed summary · Last updated: 2026-05-08
Trichotillomania is officially classified under the ICD-10 diagnostic system as code F63.3. In the older ICD-9 clinical modification, Trichotillomania was categorized under code 312.33, which identifies it as a disorder of impulse control. What exactly is Trichotillomania? Trichotillomania is a complex condition characterized by the recurrent, irresistible urge to pull out one's own hair, resulting in noticeable hair loss.
8 people with Trichotillomania have shared their first-person experience on this question at DiseaseMaps.
ICD10 code of Trichotillomania and ICD9 code
ICD-10 and ICD-9 codes for Trichotillomania, with classification details for clinicians, coders and patients.
Trichotillomania is officially classified under the ICD-10 diagnostic system as code F63.3. In the older ICD-9 clinical modification, Trichotillomania was categorized under code 312.33, which identifies it as a disorder of impulse control.
What exactly is Trichotillomania?
Trichotillomania is a complex condition characterized by the recurrent, irresistible urge to pull out one's own hair, resulting in noticeable hair loss. While it is primarily classified as a psychiatric disorder, it significantly impacts the integumentary system through skin trauma and can affect the digestive system if hair ingestion occurs. Our community of 529 members at DiseaseMaps.org highlights that Trichotillomania is deeply tied to emotional states, often serving as a maladaptive coping mechanism for anxiety, depression, and overwhelming stress.
What are the primary symptoms of Trichotillomania?
The clinical presentation of Trichotillomania varies by individual, but patients often report a cycle of tension followed by the act of pulling and subsequent relief. Key symptoms include:
- Recurrent hair pulling leading to visible patches on the scalp, eyebrows, or eyelashes.
- A mounting sense of tension immediately before pulling or when attempting to resist the urge.
- Feelings of guilt, anger, or hopelessness following the behavior.
- A state of body over-concentration where the individual becomes hyper-focused on tactile sensations related to their hair or skin.
How is Trichotillomania currently managed?
While there is no single "cure" for Trichotillomania, a multidisciplinary approach is essential. Psychiatry and psychotherapy, particularly Habit Reversal Training (HRT), are considered gold-standard interventions. Some clinical literature suggests that N-acetylcysteine (NAC), an amino acid supplement, may help reduce the intensity of pulling urges by approximately 40% in some patients, though this should only be pursued under medical supervision to ensure it does not negatively impact the immune system or other health markers.
Next steps
- Consult a psychiatrist or psychologist specializing in impulse control disorders to develop a personalized treatment plan.
- Join the 529 members of the DiseaseMaps.org community to share experiences and coping strategies.
- Consult a dermatologist to manage any secondary skin infections or integumentary damage caused by pulling.
Medical disclaimer: This information is for educational purposes only and does not replace professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
References
- NIH Genetic and Rare Diseases Information Center (GARD)
- World Health Organization (ICD-10 Browser)
- PubMed: Clinical studies on N-acetylcysteine for hair-pulling disorders
- DiseaseMaps.org community data and resources
Posted Aug 10, 2017 by Lucyeleanor2601 2620
ICD9: 312.39
Posted Aug 10, 2017 by Shirley 2150
This is the American ICD-10-CM version of F63.3. Other international versions of ICD-10 F63.3 may differ.
Reimbursement claims with a date of service on or after October 1, 2015 require the use of ICD-10-CM codes.
Clinical Information
- A disorder characterized by repetitive pulling out of one's hair resulting in noticeable hair loss; the individual experiences a rising subjective sense of tension before pulling out the hair and a sense of gratification or relief when pulling out the hair.
- Compulsion to pull out one's hair.
- Excessive pulling of one's own hair.
Posted Aug 10, 2017 by Ellen 2161
ICD10: F63.3 Trichotillomania
Posted Aug 11, 2017 by Sari 2050
Posted Oct 19, 2017 by Felicia@Face2FaceSpa 2000
The 2018 edition of ICD-10-CM F63.3 became effective on October 1, 2017.
This is the American ICD-10-CM version of F63.3 - other international versions of ICD-10 F63.3 may differ.
In Canada we have free health care, so none of the above are relevant.
Posted Oct 20, 2017 by bennersk 2190
ICD10 is F63.3
Posted Dec 17, 2017 by Hannah 1000
ICD 9: 312.39
Posted Jan 27, 2018 by Vee 2770
