The Use of Psychotropic Drugs in Dermatology

Abstract

Conditions resulting from interaction between skin and psyche are not uncommon, and are often difficult to treat for the practicing dermatologist. This paper presents a simplified classification of these conditions, and reviews the general principles of treatment. Since both a psychiatric and a dermatologic diagnosis are necessary for effective treatment, psychiatric symptoms are tabulated for ready reference. The dermatologic aspects of these conditions are not described in detail, because these can be found in any standard dermatology text. The probable mechanisms of action of current antidepressant, anxiolytic, and antipsychotic drugs are reviewed, dosage schedules commonly used in dermatology are tabulated, and clinical indications in dermatologic patients outlined. The expectable long-term prognosis in the various patient groups is described.

Neuroleptic ‘Hyposensitization’ – Therapy for Delusional Parasitosis

“…Concomitantly, the patients are encouraged to intensify their social life as social deprivation seems to be a contributing factor in many patients [Trabert, 1995]. Since dermatologists are not usually acquainted with psychotropic drug therapy [Koblenzer, 2001], it is worthwhile to seek a close interdisciplinary approach, e.g. in the form of a liaison service with the psychiatrist integrated into the dermatological outpatient service [Trabert and Bahmer, 1991].…”

“…Whilst diagnosis usually is quite easy, the benefical therapeutic intervention with neuroleptics [Koblenzer, 2001] is difficult because most of these patients do not accept the help of a psychologist or psychiatrist. This is due to the very nature of the delusion.…”

Rosacea

“…However, depending on the severity of psychological symptoms, supportive psychopharmacological interventions may be indicated [Koblenzer, 2001] …”

Psychopharmacology in Dermatological Practice: A Review and Update

“…Furthermore, many patients develop emotional problems as a result of having a disfiguring skin disease. The idea of using psychotropic medications may seem foreign to many dermatologists, given that dermatology residencies and postgraduate courses have very limited emphasis on the practice of psychopharmacotherapy [Koblenzer, 2001]. In this article, a clinically useful way of classifying psychodermatologic cases is briefly presented, followed by a discussion of the treatments for the major categories of psychopathologic conditions encountered in a dermatology practice.…”