A Brief Review of Dermatitis Artefacta and Management Strategies for Physicians

Prim Care Companion CNS Disord. 2021 Jul 1;23(4):20nr02858. doi: 10.4088/PCC.20nr02858.

Abstract

Dermatitis artefacta, an enigmatic entity with often bizarre and widely variable presentations, can be a challenge to diagnose and treat. Although it is classified as a primary psychiatric disorder, patients are often oblivious that the lesions are self-inflicted and thus consult a physician. Therefore, it becomes imperative to be aware of this condition and to build a good rapport with patients so as to counsel them on the need to seek care for their underlying psychiatric stressors. This narrative review focuses on reaching a proper diagnosis, addressing associated psychological morbidity, and formulating treatment approaches.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Dermatitis* / diagnosis
  • Dermatitis* / therapy
  • Humans
  • Physicians*
  • Self-Injurious Behavior* / diagnosis
  • Self-Injurious Behavior* / therapy