Obsessive-compulsive disorder in dermatology outpatients

Area of Science:

• Psychiatry
• Dermatology

Background:

• Epidemiological data suggest many patients with Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) initially seek dermatological care.
• Obsessions in these patients often remain undiagnosed within dermatology settings.

Purpose of the Study:

• To determine the prevalence of Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) among outpatients visiting a dermatology clinic.
• To assess the frequency of undiagnosed OCD in this patient population.

Main Methods:

• 144 dermatology outpatients were screened using the Mini-International Neuropsychiatric Interview for DSM-IV Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD).
• Patients identified with OCD were further assessed using the Yale-Brown Obsessive-Compulsive Scale (YBOCS) for symptom severity.

Main Results:

• A diagnosis of Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) was confirmed in 20 outpatients, representing a 14% prevalence rate.
• Somatic obsessions and compulsive washing behaviors were the most common symptoms reported.
• Acne was the most frequent dermatological condition among patients diagnosed with OCD.

Conclusions:

• The prevalence of Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) in dermatology outpatients may be significantly higher (4-5 times) than in the general population.
• Early identification and psychiatric referral are crucial for managing both dermatological conditions and comorbid OCD.