Excoriation disorder (ED) and skin-centered body dysmorphic disorder (BDD) are underrecognized in dermatology clinics and should suggest psychiatric interventions, according to the results of a study published in Dermatologic Therapy.

Although approximately 30% to 40% of patients who see a dermatologist have underlying psychological disorders that affect or cause the presenting skin disorders, the mental health component is often left unaddressed, the researchers noted. It is important that dermatologists are able to appropriately diagnose skin-centered BDD and ED and to educate patients on the necessary psychiatric component of effective treatment as both are associated with increased morbidity and BDD is associated with increased suicide risk. The perpetuation of these disorders is inevitable without appropriate psychiatric intervention, the investigators believe.