Body dysmorphic disorder

Body dysmorphic disorder (BDD) is a mental disorder by which the patient is obsessed with a perceived or minor defect in appearance, usually affecting the skin, hair, or nose, a defect hardly or not seen by others. This obsession can cause severe suffering and suicidality. Most patients consult a dermatologist or plastic surgeon; however, BDD often goes unrecognized. Invasive interventions, such as surgery or laser therapy, can have a negative outcome. The likelihood of detecting BDD is greatly increased by asking patients a few screening questions. Treatment with selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors or cognitive behavioural therapy has proven effective. For this reason, early recognition of BDD and adequate referral are important, and in this respect a multidisciplinary approach may be useful