Citation

Agbelusi GA, Famuyiwa OO. West Afr. J. Med. 2008; 27(3): 178-181.

Affiliation

Department of Preventive Dentistry, College of Medicine, University of Lagos. gbemisola4life2004@yahoo.com

Copyright

(Copyright © 2008, West African College of Physicians and West African College of Surgeons)

DOI

unavailable

PMID

19256326

Abstract

BACKGROUND: Body dysmorphic disorder (BDD) is an obsessive preoccupation with a perceived defect in one's physical appearance which the individual persistently seeks medical attention to correct surgically. BDD often goes unrecognized and undiagnosed, due to patients' reluctance to divulge their symptoms because of secrecy and shame. OBJECTIVE: To present the case of a patient who presented with an extreme form of dysmorphophobia. METHODS: A 22-year-old university graduate presented with complaints of not "looking like herself any more" and of looking ugly. Patient was fully clinically and psychologically assessed. Psychological and dental surgical treatment were offered to the patient. RESULTS: She was a young woman who was complaining seriously of how her teeth made her ugly and of hating herself. She chiseled and filed her tooth to make them appear better but to no avail. She had thought of committing suicide. She appeared distressed, tearful and remorseful of her actions. The teeth were chipped and stained. She refused treatment modalities offered, and would not accept a psychological support. CONCLUSION: The case highlights the need for the dentist to be educated on these disorders so that they can recognize and refer accordingly. There is also need for interdisciplinary interactions between the dentists and the psychologist.

Language: en