Body dysmorphic disorder: Part 1

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			Body dysmorphic disorder: Part 1 – introduction
			
					Introduction
				
					Section 1: Phenomenology of BDD
				
					Summary
				
					Appendix: transcripts

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Body dysmorphic disorder: Part 1 – introduction

by Ms Nell Ellison and Dr David Veale

Body dysmorphic disorder: Part 1 – introduction Body dysmorphic disorder (BDD) is defined in DSM-IV as a preoccupation with an 'imagined' defect in one’s appearance. Alternatively, where there is a slight physical anomaly, the person’s concern is markedly excessive.

BDD is characterised by severe distress or handicap, yet it remains a relatively hidden disorder. BDD patients have a poor quality of life, are socially isolated, depressed and at high risk of committing suicide. They often have needless dermatological treatment and cosmetic surgery and engage in time-consuming rituals.

The condition is easily missed and stigmatised. It may also be trivialised. The majority of patients with BDD do not volunteer their symptoms and therefore, although the diagnosis is relatively easy to make, it is often overlooked.

In this module we will provide an introduction to the phenomenology of BDD, and the second module will go on to discuss diagnosis and treatment of the disorder.

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