Hypnosis and alopecia areata: Long-term beneficial effects on psychological well-being.

Although there often exists important psychological comorbidity in patients with alopecia areata, few studies have investigated the role of psychotherapeutic interventions. The aim of this prospective cohort study was to investigate the long-term evolution of psychological symptoms in twenty-one patients with refractory alopecia areata. Patients received 10 individual sessions of hypnosis during an approximate 6-month period.

Increased history of childhood and lifetime traumatic events among adults with alopecia areata.

Background: Whether adult alopecia areata (AA) is associated with childhood or total lifetime traumatic events is not known. Previous studies have investigated only the relationship with recent stressful events.

Objective: We sought to determine whether patients with AA experience more childhood or total lifetime traumatic events, as measured by the Traumatic Experiences Checklist.

Alexithymia and dermatology: the state of the art.

Background: Alexithymia is a personality trait characterized by difficulties in differentiating and describing feelings. Research indicates that alexithymia acts as a triggering factor for many medical and psychiatric disorders. The interest in alexithymia has increased considerably over the past decade.

Hypnotic approaches for alopecia areata.

Alopecia areata (AA) is an autoimmune disease leading to loss of scalp hairs. The disease seems triggered by stress. Data on the possibility of using hypnotherapy in the treatment of AA are very limited.

Hypnotherapeutic management of alopecia areata.

Background: Only limited data exist on the role of psychotherapy in alopecia areata (AA).

Objective: We sought to document the influence of hypnotherapy on psychologic well-being and clinical outcome in AA.

Methods: Hypnosis was used in 28 patients with extensive AA who were refractory to previous conventional treatments.

[Hypnosis technics used to diminish anxiety and fear: review of the literature].

Hypnosis can be a valuable technique in the management of patients who fear medical treatment. Hypnosis leads to a stronger concentration and a more focussed attention, and thus to a better acceptance and greater effectiveness of suggestions. Literature indicates that hypnotherapy can reduce pain and fear in case of dental or medical phobia.