Dermatologists' Experience in Managing Body Dysmorphic Disorder in Saudi Arabia
Year: 2025
Type: article
Study design: Observational Study
Abstract: BACKGROUND: Preoccupation with a perceived minor or non-existent flaw in physical appearance that negatively impacts a patient's quality of life is the cardinal feature of body dysmorphic disorder (BDD). OBJECTIVE: This study aims too explore how commonly dermatologists in Saudi Arabia (SA) encounter BDD patients and their preferred management approach. METHODS: We conducted a cross-sectional study using a previously validated questionnaire that included information about participants' demographics, the frequency of exposure to BDD patients, and their management approach. We used a purposeful sampling technique, distributing the survey via Google Forms to 127 dermatologists living in SA, regardless of their age, gender, position, clinical setting, or work experience, over a period of one month. RESULTS: A total of 118 (93%) participants had encountered at least one BDD patient at some point throughout their working life. Two-thirds of participants are currently treating BDD patients. Seventy-eight participants (62%) consider patient reassurance and condition explanation as their primary approach to managing BDD patients, despite knowing that antidepressants are considered the first-line treatment. CONCLUSION: Most dermatologists in SA are aware of BDD and encounter it in their daily practice. While they recognize that antidepressants are the first-line treatment and that early involvement of a psychiatrist is paramount, most prefer to simply explain the nature of the condition to the patient and provide reassurance.
Source: Cureus
DOI: 10.7759/cureus.80632
Author: Mohammed A AlFada
Institution: King Saud University
Language: English
Subfield: Clinical Psychology
Field: Psychology
Domain: Social Sciences
Open Access status: diamond
OpenAlex ID: W4408478182