Body Dysmorphic Disorder, Psychiatric Symptoms, and Quality of Life in Female Dermatological Patients

The study investigated the connection between body dysmorphic disorder (BDD), psychiatric symptoms, and quality of life in 154 female dermatological patients. It utilized the Body Dysmorphic Disorder Examination-Self Report (BDDE-SR), Symptom Checklist 90-Revised (SCL-90-R), and Skindex-29 to measure these factors. The findings indicated a significant association between BDD symptoms and psychiatric symptoms, as well as a reduced quality of life, even when accounting for variables such as age, body mass index, and dermatological diagnosis. Depression and emotional distress were identified as the primary contributors to BDD symptoms. BDD symptoms were notably more prevalent in patients with unclassified dermatoses, although the severity of psychiatric symptoms and quality of life issues did not correlate with any specific dermatological diagnosis. The study suggests a strong link between BDD symptoms, psychiatric distress, and diminished quality of life in female dermatological patients, especially those with unclassified dermatoses, and recommends further research with psychiatric interviews to confirm BDD diagnoses.