PSYCHOSOCIAL IMPACT OF COMMON SKIN DISORDERS – A REVIEW STUDY

Abstract

Objective - To increase awareness of the psychosocial impact of Kushtha, Visarpa, Mukhadushika, Sheetpitta, Udarda and Kotha in Ayurveda and Acne vulgaris, Urticaria, Various types of fungal infections, Atopic dermatitis, Psoriasis etc. in modern point of view. Quality Of Evidence - A literature review was based on a MEDLINE search (1966 to 2000). Selected articles from the dermatologic and psychiatric literature, as well as other relevant medical journals, were reviewed and used as the basis for discussion of how skin disease affects patients’ lives and of appropriate management. Message - Dermatologic problems hurt patients’ quality of life. skin disease can produce stress, anxiety, anger, depression, low self-esteem, embarrassment, and other psychological, personal, professional and social life problems that affect patients’ lives in ways comparable to arthritis or other disabling illnesses, as well as showing a bidirectional relationship between skin disease and psychological distress. This review focuses on the effects of five common skin diseases seen by family physicians- Acne, Urticaria, Various types of fungal infections, Atopic dermatitis and Psoriasis. Conclusion - How skin disease affects psychosocial well-being is un- derappreciated. Increased understanding of the psychiatric comorbidity associated with skin disease and a biopsy- chosocial approach to management will ultimately improve patients’ lives. Keywords: Skin disease, Psychosocial Impact, Quality of life.