Psychological morbidity and body dysmorphic disorder among patients with acne

Aim: This study aimed to evaluate the psychological morbidity, depression, anxiety disorder, level of stress, and body dysmorphic disorder (BDD) among patients with acne and also to examine the relationship of BDD with the psychological morbidity, stress, and severity of acne. Materials and Methods: One hundred and fifteen adult patients with acne were evaluated on the Perceived Stress Scale, Physical Health Questionnaire-9, Generalized Anxiety Disorder-7 Scale, and BDD Questionnaire-Dermatology Version. Results: Approximately one-fourth of the patients with acne in the study group had depression (27.8%) and anxiety disorder (23.5%). Less than half (44.3%) of the patients with acne had preoccupation with their appearance/body parts and one-fourth (27.0%) fulfilled the criteria for BDD. Facial flaws were reported as the most concern. A significant number of patients avoided social and occupational functioning resulting in social isolation, interference in their work/job, interpersonal problems, etc. Those with BDD had a higher prevalence of stress, anxiety, and depressive disorder. Conclusion: About one-fourth of the patients with acne have BDD, which is associated with stress, anxiety, and depressive disorder. Accordingly, there is a need to regularly evaluate patients of acne for psychological issues. The dermatologist and psychiatrist should work in close liaison to provide the holistic care to patients with acne.