Information about Body Dysmorphic Disorder – BDD
Body Dysmorphic Disorder – BDD Description
Body Dysmorphic Disorder (BDD) is a Somatoform disorder according to the DSM-IV-TR.
Body Dysmorphic Disorder – BDD Clinical Diagnosis
The American Psychiatric Association classifies Body Dysmorphic Disorder (BDD) as an Somatoform Disorder on Axis I of the DSM-IV-TR. Symptoms must include:
A preoccupation with either a slight physical anomaly where the concern is excessive or an imagined defect in appearance.
The preoccupation causes significant distress or functional impairment in social, occupational, or other areas
This preoccupation is not due to a different diagnosis, e.g., an eating disorder.
Body Dysmorphic Disorder – BDD Causes and Characteristics
Prevalence rates are likely 1-2% in the general population. Research indicates that in dermatological settings it may be as high as 15%. The ratio of female to male is roughly 1.25, so surprisingly men are almost as likely to have this diagnosis. BDD does exist in numerous countries at similar rates, although there are case reports of minor culturally specific differences. It is also important to note that while exposure to images in the media may influence symptoms, there have been case reports of BDD in areas without access to television, internet, etc. Onset typically occurs in adolescence, but can also occur in childhood or adulthood.
Body Dysmorphic Disorder – BDD Treatment
While more research needs to be done, there is significant evidence that effective treatment for BDD exists. Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT) and pharmacotherapy have demonstrated effectiveness. SSRIs have been used effectively. Likewise CBT has been used as individual therapy and achieved high rates of improvement with those diagnosed with BDD.