title: Body dysmorphic disorder: beyond skin deep.
abstract: Body dysmorphic disorder (BDD) is a psychiatric illness that primarily affects adolescents and young adults of both sexes. Patients have a distorted self-image, which manifests as a preoccupation with slight or imagined defects in the face, nose, skin, hair or any part of the body that ultimately interferes with daily functioning. It is a relatively common yet long unrecognized problem. Patients often seek multiple physician assessments for their perceived defects and request cosmetic procedures. Early intervention can prevent a cycle of multiple surgeries, as the outcome is usually poor and may lead to exacerbation of symptoms, anger and litigation. BDD is a disabling, and even life-threatening, condition; it can lead to major depression and suicidal ideation. Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors and cognitive behavioral therapy are the mainstay of treatment and are beneficial in most patients. A multidisciplinary approach is strongly recommended.
authors: Dermatology, New Jersey Medical School Rutgers University, Newark, NJ, USA - roschwar@cal.berkeley.edu.
authors: Z
authors: Z
authors: Husain
authors: E J
authors: EJ
authors: Janniger
authors: J A
authors: JA
authors: Krysicka
authors: G
authors: G
authors: Micali
authors: R A
authors: RA
authors: Schwartz
mesh_terms: D057215:Body Dysmorphic Disorders / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000523:psychology* / Q000628:therapy*; D015928:Cognitive Behavioral Therapy / Q000379:methods; D006801:Humans; D033183:Interdisciplinary Communication; D019365:Metaphor; D017367:Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D016896:Treatment Outcome
chemical_list: D017367:Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors