New perspectives in the treatment of body dysmorphic disorder

Eric Hollander, Kevin Hong, Vera Nezgovorova

Research output: Contribution to journalReview articlepeer-review

16 Scopus citations

Abstract

Body dysmorphic disorder (BDD) is a disabling illness with a high worldwide prevalence. Patients demonstrate a debilitating preoccupation with one or more perceived defects, often marked by poor insight or delusional convictions. Multiple studies have suggested that selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors and various cognitive behavioral therapy modalities are effective first-line treatments in decreasing BDD severity, relieving depressive symptoms, restoring insight, and increasing quality of life. Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors have also recently been shown to be effective for relapse prevention. This review provides a comprehensive summary of the current understanding of BDD, including its clinical features, epidemiology, genetics, and current treatment modalities. Additional research is needed to fully elucidate the relationship between BDD and comorbid illnesses such as obsessive-compulsive-related disorders and depression and to develop therapies for refractory patients and those who have contraindications for pharmacological intervention.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Article number361
JournalF1000Research
Volume7
DOIs
StatePublished - 2018

Keywords

  • BDD
  • Body dysmorphic disorder
  • CBT
  • Cognitve behavioral therapy
  • TMS
  • Transcranial magnetic stimulation

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • General Immunology and Microbiology
  • General Pharmacology, Toxicology and Pharmaceutics
  • General Biochemistry, Genetics and Molecular Biology

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