PSYCHOSOMATIC ASPECTS IN PATIENTS WITH DERMATOLOGIC DISEASES

Area of Science:

• Psychiatry
• Dermatology
• Psychology

Background:

• Anxiety and depression are common comorbidities in patients with dermatological diseases.
• Previous studies have indicated a link between skin conditions and mental health, but prevalence rates vary.
• Understanding the magnitude of these conditions in dermatological patients is crucial for comprehensive care.

Purpose of the Study:

• To determine the prevalence of anxiety and depression among patients with common dermatological conditions.
• To investigate the correlation between anxiety and depression and demographic factors such as age and sex.
• To compare the observed prevalence rates with those reported in existing literature.

Main Methods:

• A cross-sectional study was conducted on 211 outpatients with various dermatological diseases.
• The Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS) was used to assess anxiety and depression symptoms.
• Psychometric validity of HADS was confirmed through structured psychiatric interviews.

Main Results:

• High prevalence rates were observed: 65.4% experienced anxiety, 56.2% depression, and 24.7% both.
• Anxiety and depression were more frequent in women than men.
• Anxiety was more common in younger patients, and specific conditions like Psoriasis, Eczema, Acne, and Vitiligo showed particularly high comorbidity rates.

Conclusions:

• The study highlights significantly higher rates of anxiety and depression in dermatological patients compared to previous reports.
• Demographic factors, including sex and age, are linked to the risk of depressive and anxiety disorders.
• These findings underscore the need for integrated mental health screening and support within dermatology practice.