Contact at the borderline: psychoanalytic psychotherapy with EB patients

Area of Science:

• Psychology
• Dermatology
• Genetics

Background:

• Epidermolysis bullosa (EB) is a rare genetic disorder causing fragile skin.
• Psychosocial aspects of EB are under-researched.
• A psychotherapy service for adult EB patients has seen slow uptake.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the slow uptake of a psychotherapy service for adult EB patients.
• To propose a concept of "genetic trauma" specific to EB.
• To examine psychodynamic factors influencing emotional expression in severely affected EB patients.

Main Methods:

• Qualitative analysis of service uptake data.
• Literature review on psychosocial aspects of EB.
• Clinical psychodynamic case study exploration.

Main Results:

• Adult EB patients exhibit hesitant engagement with psychotherapy services.
• Perceived need for psychological support may differ between patients and healthcare providers.
• The skin's psychological significance and its compromise in EB are key considerations.

Conclusions:

• The slow uptake suggests complex psychosocial factors influencing EB patient engagement.
• Understanding "genetic trauma" is crucial for tailoring psychological support.
• Further research into the psychodynamics of severe EB is warranted to improve patient care.