[Psychodermatology: psychological and psychiatrical aspects of dermatology]

Abstract

Psychodermatology descibes an interaction between dermatology and psychiatry and psychology. The incidence of psychiatric disorders among dermatological patients is estimated at about 30 to 60%. It appears that a significant group of patients who seek dermatologist's advice are those who can reveal psychiatric disorders. The most often diagnosed psychiatric disturbances are mood disorders, especially depressive, suicidal ideation and tendencies, anxiety disorders, obsessive disorders and delusional disorders. Knowledge of the psycho-dermatological diseases can contribute to more profitable therapy in both dermatology and psychiatry. This article characterises the particular disorders with their dermatological and psychological aspects. The basic principles of therapeutic interventions for each disorder are also discussed.