In pursuit of perfection: a primary care physician's guide to body dysmorphic disorder.

Abstract

Body dysmorphic disorder is an under-recognized chronic problem that is defined as an excessive preoccupation with an imagined or a minor defect of a localized facial feature or body part, resulting in decreased social, academic and occupational functioning. Patients who have body dysmorphic disorder are preoccupied with an ideal body image and view themselves as ugly or misshapen. Comorbid psychiatric disorders may also be present in these patients. Body dysmorphic disorder is distinguished from eating disorders such as anorexia nervosa that encompass a preoccupation with overall body shape and weight. Psychosocial and neurochemical factors, specifically serotonin dysfunction, are postulated etiologies. Treatment approaches include cognitive-behavioral psychotherapy and psychotropic medication. To relieve the symptoms of body dysmorphic disorder, selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors, in higher dosages than those typically recommended for other psychiatric disorders, may be necessary. A trusting relationship between the patient and the family physician may encourage compliance with medical treatment and bridge the transition to psychiatric intervention.

• Authors: J R Slaughter, A M Sun
• Journal: American family physician (Am Fam Physician) Vol. 60 Issue 6 Pg. 1738-42 (Oct 15 1999) ISSN: 0002-838X [Print] United States
• PMID: 10537388 (Publication Type: Case Reports, Journal Article, Review)

Chemical References

• Serotonin Uptake Inhibitors

Topics

• Adolescent
• Adult
• Cognitive Behavioral Therapy
• Diagnosis, Differential
• Female
• Humans
• Male
• Primary Health Care
• Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors (therapeutic use)
• Somatoform Disorders (complications, diagnosis, therapy)