A case report of body dysmorphic disorder and literature review.
BACKGROUND
Body dysmorphic disorder (BDD) is an obsessive preoccupation with a perceived defect in one's physical appearance which the individual persistently seeks medical attention to correct surgically. BDD often goes unrecognized and undiagnosed, due to patients' reluctance to divulge their symptoms because of secrecy and shame.


OBJECTIVE
To present the case of a patient who presented with an extreme form of dysmorphophobia.


METHODS
A 22-year-old university graduate presented with complaints of not "looking like herself any more" and of looking ugly. Patient was fully clinically and psychologically assessed. Psychological and dental surgical treatment were offered to the patient.


RESULTS
She was a young woman who was complaining seriously of how her teeth made her ugly and of hating herself. She chiseled and filed her tooth to make them appear better but to no avail. She had thought of committing suicide. She appeared distressed, tearful and remorseful of her actions. The teeth were chipped and stained. She refused treatment modalities offered, and would not accept a psychological support.


CONCLUSIONS
The case highlights the need for the dentist to be educated on these disorders so that they can recognize and refer accordingly. There is also need for interdisciplinary interactions between the dentists and the psychologist.
Agbelusi
G A
GA
Department of Preventive Dentistry, College of Medicine, University of Lagos. gbemisola4life2004@yahoo.com
Famuyiwa
O O
OO
D000328:Adult; D001828:Body Image; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D009771:Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder / Q000175:diagnosis* / Q000188:drug therapy / Q000523:psychology; D012649:Self Concept; D013315:Stress, Psychological / Q000523:psychology