Psychiatric Comorbidity in Dermatology Patients in a Tertiary Care Centre in Western U.P
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.37506/ijphrd.v13i2.17907Keywords:
Liaison therapy, mind, psychodermatology, quality of life, stressAbstract
Skin is an organ that has a primary function in tactile receptivity and reacts directly upon emotional
stimuli. Dermatological practice involves a psychosomatic dimension. A relationship between
psychological factors and skin diseases has long been hypothesized. Psychodermatology addresses
the interaction between mind and skin. It is divided into three categories according to the relationship
between skin diseases and mental disorders. This article reviews different dermatological conditions
under each of the three categories namely psychosomatic disorders, dermatological conditions due
to primary and secondary psychiatric disorders. Dermatological conditions resulting from psychiatric
conditions like stress/depression and those caused by psychiatric disorders are discussed. This review
intends to present the relationship between the ‘skin’ and the ‘mind’ specifically from the dermatology
point of view. The effects on the quality of life as a result of psychodermatological conditions are
highlighted. A multidisciplinary approach for treatment from both dermatologic and psychiatric
viewpoints are suggested.