Psychodermatology in Hungary: Awareness and practice patterns of dermatologists

Area of Science:

• Psychodermatology
• Interdisciplinary Medicine
• Dermatology
• Psychiatry
• Psychology

Background:

• Psychodermatology integrates psychiatry/psychology with dermatology.
• Understanding and managing the interplay between mental health and skin conditions is crucial.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate Hungarian dermatologists' awareness, practices, and attitudes toward psychodermatology.
• To identify current training needs and comfort levels in managing psychodermatological cases.

Main Methods:

• A questionnaire-based survey was distributed to 100 Hungarian dermatologists (including residents).
• The survey assessed understanding of psychodermatology, training, treatment comfort, and interest in continuing education.
• A response rate of 51% was achieved between October 2020 and June 2021.

Main Results:

• 49% correctly defined psychodermatology as a bidirectional interaction between mental and skin conditions.
• Only 25.5% felt comfortable treating psychodermatological patients.
• Psoriasis and atopic dermatitis were most frequently associated with psychological involvement; referrals often involved atopic dermatitis, anxiety, and depression.
• A significant majority (76.5%) could not identify patient resources, yet 58.8% expressed interest in further training.

Conclusions:

• Hungarian dermatologists demonstrate high awareness of psychodermatology but a low comfort level in managing these patients.
• A discrepancy exists between the prevalence of psychodermatological conditions and referrals to mental health professionals.
• Enhanced collaboration between dermatologists, psychiatrists, and psychologists is recommended to improve patient care.