Body Dysmorphic Disorder in a Nigerian Boy Presenting as Depression: A Case Report and Literature Review

Abstract

Background: Body dysmorphic disorder (BDD) has been described widely in the Western world as relatively common yet under-recognized, but rarely in Africans and none in Nigeria to the best of our knowledge. Aim: To report a case of BDD in a Nigerian boy presenting with depression to the psychiatric unit of a teaching hospital. Method: A 17-year-old secondary school boy with BDD presenting with depression is reported and relevant literature is reviewed. Conclusion: BDD is rare and hardly reported in this environment and high index of suspicion is necessary in patient presenting with medically unexplained physical complaints and depression.