[Skin self-injuries in psychodermatological aspect]. / Samouszkodzenia skóry w aspekcie psychodermatologicznym.

ABSTRACT

Mental disorders are the most frequent cause of self induced injuries (self-injury). Self-mutilation is a form of auto-aggression, which is a manifestation of psychic discomfort. Skin changes, defined as self-induced skin diseases, constitute the secondary problem, and require patients to consult dermatologists. Self-induced skin diseases include Münchhausen syndrome, acne excoriée, trichotillomania, nail biting (onychophagia), dermatitis artefacta, neurotic self-mutilation, self-mutilation when associated with hallucinations and delusions. A knowledge of psycho-dermatological issues among dermatologists, general practitioners, psychiatrists and psychologists facilitates proper diagnosis and the appropriate choice and form of treatment and enables patients to be provided with more complex medical care.