Body Dysmorphic Disorder in Females

Body dysmorphic disorder is a primary psychiatric disorder wherein the patients often present themselves to dermatologists and aestheticians as the primary pathology is preoccupation with a distorted body image. It is currently classified in the obsessive-compulsive spectrum by Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, DSM-V of 2013. Though almost equal in incidence in both genders, the area of body obsessed with varies, with face, hair and breasts being common areas of concern in women. The patients may have varying degrees of insight, and the higher the lack of insight, more difficult is the treatment. Associated psychiatric comorbidities are common, and treatment is prolonged, involving a combined approach using psychopharmacology and psychotherapy.