Psychodermatology

Psychodermatology deals with illness where there is an interaction between psychological and skin disorders. This article outlines a classification of such illness into (1) primary dermatologic disorders which are precipitated or exacerbated by psychological factors; (2) secondary psychiatric disorders which arise from primary dermatologic conditions; and (3) primary psychiatric disorders which are manifest via the skin. General points about the clinical management of this group of disorders are made. The main disorders within each category are briefly discussed in terms of epidemiology, aetiology and treatment. Finally, the skin complications of psychotropics are listed, and the main psychiatric complications of commonly used dermatologic treatments are outlined.