Body dysmorphic disorder: a guide for primary care physicians. Review uri icon

Overview

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.

publication date

  • March 1, 2002

Research

keywords

  • Primary Health Care
  • Somatoform Disorders

Identity

PubMed Central ID

  • PMC1785389

Scopus Document Identifier

  • 0036124196

PubMed ID

  • 11856661

Additional Document Info

volume

  • 29

issue

  • 1