Identification and management of mental health issues by dermatologic surgeons: a survey of American Society for Dermatologic Surgery members.

[BACKGROUND] Dermatologists have long been interested in mental health issues of their patients. Some psychosocial distress likely motivates the pursuit of cosmetic dermatologic treatments. However, a percentage of patients seeking treatment suffer from significant psychopathology, such as body dysmorphic disorder (BDD), which may contraindicate treatment.

[OBJECTIVE] To assess dermatologic surgeons' strategies for identification and management of mental health issues among patients seeking cosmetic procedures.

[MATERIALS AND METHODS] A survey was sent to 2,855 practicing members of the American Society for Dermatologic Surgery by e-mail.

[RESULTS] Two hundred sixty members completed the survey (9.1%). Approximately, 60% of respondents indicated that they ask new patients about psychiatric treatment history, and 92% reported that they have declined to provide a cosmetic treatment because of concerns about mental health status. Most (94%) indicated that they were aware of BDD, and 62% indicated that they refused to treat a patient believed to have BDD. Respondents estimated that 13% of new patients had BDD and 63% considered BDD to be a contraindication to treatment.

[CONCLUSION] Approximately 60% of dermatologic surgeons inquire about the mental health issues of their cosmetic patients. Most are aware of BDD, but less than two-thirds consider it a contraindication to treatment.