Dermatitis artefacta

Abstract

Dermatitis artefacta (factitious skin disorder) is a rare psychocutaneous disorder that poses a complex clinical challenge to clinicians. The hallmarks of diagnosis include self-inflicted lesions in accessible areas of the face and extremities that do not correlate with organic disease patterns. Importantly, patients are unable to take ownership of the cutaneous signs. It is essential to acknowledge and focus on the psychologic disorders and life stressors that have predisposed the condition rather than the mechanism of self-injury. The best outcomes are achieved via a holistic approach in the setting of a multidisciplinary psychocutaneous team addressing cutaneous, psychiatric, and psychologic aspects of the condition simultaneously. A nonconfrontational approach to patient care builds rapport and trust, facilitating sustained engagement with treatment. Emphasis on patient education, reassurance with ongoing support, and judgment-free consultations are key. Enhancing patient and clinician education is essential in raising awareness of this condition to promote appropriate and timely referral to the psychocutaneous multidisciplinary team.