Body-focused repetitive behavior disorders in ICD-11

Area of Science:

• Psychiatry
• Clinical Psychology
• Mental Health Classification

Background:

• Body-focused repetitive behavior disorders (BFRBs) like trichotillomania and skin-picking disorder lack consistent classification.
• Previous classifications in ICD-10 and DSM-5 have varied, impacting diagnosis and treatment.
• Understanding the optimal nosological placement is crucial for clinical practice and research.

Purpose of the Study:

• To determine the most appropriate classification for BFRBs within the International Classification of Diseases, 11th Revision (ICD-11).
• To review historical and current diagnostic approaches (DSM-5, ICD-10) for BFRBs.
• To provide evidence-based recommendations for ICD-11 to improve identification and treatment.

Main Methods:

• Review of historical nosological frameworks for BFRBs.
• Analysis of current diagnostic criteria in DSM-5 and ICD-10.
• Consideration of clinical utility and clinician perspectives.
• Evaluation of recent field survey data.

Main Results:

• Limited but mixed data exist on the optimal placement of BFRBs.
• Most clinicians perceive BFRBs as related to obsessive-compulsive disorders.
• DSM-5 descriptions for BFRBs are supported by recent field surveys.

Conclusions:

• BFRBs should be included within the obsessive-compulsive and related disorders category in ICD-11.
• ICD-11 descriptions should align closely with DSM-5 criteria.
• This classification aims to enhance global identification and treatment of BFRBs in primary care.