Citation

Phillips KA, Dufresne RG. Prim. Care 2002; 29(1): 99-111, vii.

Copyright

(Copyright © 2002, Elsevier Publishing)

DOI

10.1016/s0095-4543(03)00076-9

PMID

11856661

PMCID

PMC1785389

Abstract

Body dysmorphic disorder (BDD), a preoccupation with an imagined or slight defect in appearance, is a relatively common psychiatric disorder that often presents to nonpsychiatric physicians. Body dysmorphic disorder is associated with marked impairment in functioning, notably poor quality of life, and a high suicide attempt rate. Most patients seek and receive surgery or nonpsychiatric medical or dermatologic treatment, often with a perceived poor outcome despite an objectively acceptable result. In contrast, psychiatric treatment, serotonin-reuptake inhibitors and cognitive-behavioral therapy, often are effective. This clinically focused review describes the clinical features and prevalence of BDD, the disorder's treatment response, how to recognize and diagnose BDD, and practical suggestions for primary care physicians who encounter these often difficult-to-treat patients.

Language: en

Keywords

Adult; Cognitive Behavioral Therapy; Female; Humans; Patient Education as Topic; Primary Health Care; Referral and Consultation; Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors; Somatoform Disorders