Obsessive-compulsive disorders in the pediatric dermatology practice.

Area of Science:

• Dermatology
• Psychiatry
• Psychosomatic Medicine

Background:

• Childhood and adolescent obsessive-compulsive disorders (OCD) are observed in dermatological practice.
• Common presentations include trichotillomania, onychotillomania, onychophagia, and acne excoriée in younger patients.
• Obsessive hand washing and other psychosomatic dermatoses with compulsive tendencies affect all age groups.

Purpose of the Study:

• To highlight the presence and manifestations of OCD in dermatological settings.
• To emphasize the importance of diagnosing underlying psychiatric disorders before initiating pharmacotherapy.
• To inform about advancements in OCD treatment and the role of psychiatric collaboration.

Main Methods:

• Review of common dermatological manifestations of OCD in pediatric and adolescent populations.
• Discussion of psychosomatic dermatoses with obsessive-compulsive features across age groups.
• Consideration of pharmacotherapy options, including clomipramine and fluoxetine.

Main Results:

• OCD frequently presents with specific behavioral dermatoses in children and adolescents.
• Accurate diagnosis of psychiatric comorbidities is crucial for effective treatment.
• New pharmacological agents show promise for managing OCD symptoms.

Conclusions:

• Dermatologists should be aware of OCD's dermatological manifestations.
• Collaboration with psychiatrists is vital for accurate diagnosis and comprehensive treatment of OCD.
• Pharmacological advancements offer improved therapeutic options for patients with OCD.