Related Experiment Videos
Suicidal ideation in Darier's disease
K D Denicoff1, Z A Lehman, D R Rubinow
1Biological Psychiatry Branch, National Institute of Mental Health, Bethesda, MD 20892.
Abstract:
We investigated the psychiatric history of patients with severe Darier's disease and a control group, which consisted of patients with comparably severe dermatologic disorders of keratinization. Three patients with Darier's disease reported either a suicide attempt (one patient) or a specific suicide plan (two), compared with one patient in the control group. Of 11 patients with Darier's disease, 7 had a history of suicidal thoughts, compared with 3 of 11 patients in the control group. Thus suicidal ideation is a potential problem in patients with cutaneous illnesses, particularly those with chronic disfiguring disorders such as severe Darier's disease.
Insights
Patients with severe Darier's disease show higher rates of suicidal thoughts and plans compared to other severe skin conditions. This highlights the significant psychological impact of chronic, disfiguring dermatological disorders.
Area of Science:
- Dermatology
- Psychiatry
- Psychosomatic Medicine
Background:
- Darier's disease is a rare genetic skin disorder causing significant physical and psychological distress.
- Patients with chronic and disfiguring skin conditions often experience comorbid psychiatric issues.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the prevalence of suicidal ideation and behavior in patients with severe Darier's disease.
- To compare psychiatric histories, specifically suicidal ideation, between patients with Darier's disease and a control group with other severe keratinization disorders.
Main Methods:
- A case-control study design was employed.
- The study included patients diagnosed with severe Darier's disease and a control group with comparably severe dermatologic disorders of keratinization.
- Psychiatric histories, focusing on suicidal thoughts and attempts, were collected and compared between the groups.
Main Results:
- Seven out of eleven patients with severe Darier's disease reported a history of suicidal thoughts.
- Three patients with Darier's disease reported either a suicide attempt or a specific suicide plan.
- Compared to the control group, patients with Darier's disease exhibited a higher incidence of suicidal ideation.
Conclusions:
- Suicidal ideation is a significant concern for individuals with severe Darier's disease.
- Chronic and disfiguring cutaneous disorders, such as Darier's disease, are associated with an increased risk of suicidal ideation.
- Psychiatric screening and support are crucial for patients managing severe dermatological conditions.