Psychosomatic Factors in Dermatology: Special Perspectives for Application in Clinical Practice
August 2005
in “
Dermatologic Clinics
”
TLDR Doctors should consider psychological factors when treating skin conditions and work with mental health experts.
The 2005 document emphasizes the significance of psychosomatic factors in dermatology, advocating for the integration of psychological considerations in the treatment of skin conditions. It discusses the bidirectional influence of the mind and body, suggesting that conditions like pruritus, urticaria, and alopecia areata may have psychosomatic components. The paper calls for collaboration between dermatologists and mental health professionals to provide comprehensive care and highlights the historical development of psychosomatic research in the field. Despite the collection of scientific data, the document notes the need for practical strategies to help dermatologists identify psychosomatic factors in their patients. It also points to the necessity for further research in psychoneuroendocrinoimmunology to deepen the understanding of the mind-skin connection.