Psychiatric Morbidity Among Dermatology Patients

Abstract

Background: Increased frequency of psychiatric and emotional health problems has been reported among patients with dermatological lesions. These problems could negatively affect the quality of life of these patients. Purpose: The aim of the study was to evaluate the psychiatric morbidity among dermatology patients. It also sought to determine the relationship between sociodemographic factors and psychiatric morbidity. Methods: This was a cross-sectional study consisting of 90 consenting patients attending the dermatological clinic of University of Port Harcourt Teaching Hospital. These patients filled the study questionnaire which comprised of a sociodemographic questionnaire, general health questionnaire (GHQ-12), and a perceived stigma scale. A GHQ score of ≥ 3 was considered as having psychiatric morbidity. Statistical analysis was performed at the 0.05 significance level. Results: The mean age of the patients was 32 ± 13 years and a male to female ratio of 1:2; 34 of the 90 patients (38%) had psychiatric morbidity. Forty-three (48%) patients had perceived stigma, with mild perceived stigma as the most common category (40%) of perceived stigma. There was no significant relationship between sociodemographic characteristics of the patients and psychiatric morbidity (P > 0.05). Conclusion: Psychiatric morbidity is common among patients with dermatological lesions irrespective of their sociodemographic characteristics. Addressing the psychosocial care of patients who attend the dermatologic outpatient clinic may be helpful.

Psychodermatological Disorders in Patients With Primary Psychiatric Conditions: Cross-Sectional Study

“…The exact prevalence of PDs in those with primary psychiatric conditions is uncertain due to limited research, a lack of standard classification system, and underdiagnosis [ 18 , 22 ]. Nevertheless, previous studies highlight the significant burden of psychiatric problems among patients with dermatological conditions [ 21 - 23 ]. Our findings echo this, underscoring the substantial relationship between dermatological and psychiatric conditions.…”

“…There are significant gaps in the scientific literature on PDs in the context of primary psychiatric conditions. Most data on PDs are derived from the general population or dermatology outpatient settings and have consistently demonstrated a high prevalence of comorbid psychiatric symptoms among patients with diverse dermatological conditions [ 5 - 7 , 19 - 21 ].…”