PSYCHOSOCIAL ISSUES IN DERMATOLOGY

Abstract

Skin, with its many biological functions, has a unique aesthetic value and determines the self-image and psyche of the person in terms of how they think about themselves. In modern times, smooth-textured flawless skin is a preferred characteristic. Any change in this highly aesthetic organ due to a disease has significant repercussions on personal and social life. There is a bidirectional relationship between dermatological diseases and psychiatric disorders. These can be studied under three categories: psychophysiological disorders, which are dermatologic conditions that fluctuate in clinical severity according to psychological state; primary psychiatric disorders presenting with dermatological manifestations; and dermatological adverse effects of psychotropic medication. Psychiatric disorders are highly prevalent in dermatological patients. Dermatologists should be aware of the psychological factors contributing to or arising from skin disease in common dermatological conditions. Management of psychiatric comorbidities in these patients will help decrease the stigma, stress, and distress, and thus will improve the quality of life of patients and overall treatment success.

Keywords

• skin
• psychiatric morbidity
• stress
• stigma
• dermatologist
• psychodermatology