What Is Skin Picking Disorder (Dermatillomania)?

Understanding Skin Picking Disorder (Dermatillomania)

This post was written with Consensus AI Academic Search Engine – please read our Disclaimer at the end of this article. Skin Picking Disorder (SPD), also known as Dermatillomania, is a chronic neuropsychiatric condition characterized by repetitive and compulsive picking of the skin, leading to tissue damage. Despite its significant impact on individuals’ health and quality of life, SPD remains underdiagnosed and undertreated1 2 3.

Prevalence and Demographics

SPD is more common than often recognized, with studies indicating a notable prevalence in various populations. For instance, a study conducted in Jeddah found that 28.8% of respondents reported skin picking behavior, with 1.2% exhibiting symptoms indicative of SPD7. The disorder affects both genders, though some studies suggest higher prevalence rates among women9.

Etiology and Risk Factors

The exact cause of SPD is not well understood, but it is believed to involve a combination of genetic, psychological, and environmental factors. SPD is often associated with other psychiatric conditions such as obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), anxiety, and depression3 9. Additionally, factors such as stress, emotional distress, and certain personality traits may increase the risk of developing SPD7.

Clinical Features

SPD is characterized by recurrent skin picking that results in skin lesions and significant distress or functional impairment. The behavior is often compulsive, and individuals may spend considerable time picking their skin, which can lead to severe tissue damage and medical complications such as infections4 5. The disorder is classified under obsessive-compulsive and related disorders in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition (DSM-5)3 10.

Diagnostic Criteria

The diagnosis of SPD is based on clinical evaluation and the presence of specific criteria, including:

• Recurrent skin picking resulting in skin lesions.
• Repeated attempts to decrease or stop the behavior.
• The behavior causes significant distress or impairment in social, occupational, or other important areas of functioning.
• The skin picking is not attributable to the physiological effects of a substance or another medical condition3 4.

Consequences

The consequences of SPD extend beyond physical damage to the skin. Individuals with SPD often experience significant emotional and psychological distress, including feelings of shame, guilt, and embarrassment. The disorder can also lead to social isolation and difficulties in personal and professional relationships1 6.

Conclusion

Skin Picking Disorder is a complex and often underrecognized condition that requires greater awareness and understanding. It is associated with significant morbidity and comorbidity, impacting individuals’ physical and mental health. Further research and heightened clinical attention are essential to improve the diagnosis and management of SPD, ultimately enhancing the quality of life for those affected by this challenging disorder.

Disclaimer

The content presented in this blog is generated by Consensus, an AI-powered academic search engine, and is based on publicly available scientific literature. While every effort is made to provide accurate, up-to-date, and well-researched information, the content is intended for informational and educational purposes only. It does not constitute medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before making any decisions regarding medical conditions, treatments, or medications. The AI system’s analysis may not cover all perspectives, emerging research, or individual cases, and it is not a substitute for professional expertise. Neither the blog publisher nor the developers of the AI-powered search engine are responsible for any actions taken based on the information provided in this content. Use of this information is at your own risk. Citations to the original scientific studies are included for reference, but these studies should be reviewed in full and interpreted with the guidance of a healthcare or research professional.

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