Validity of Screening Questionnaire for Detection of Psychiatric Manifestations in Chronic Dermatoses

Abstract

Skin being the largest organ of the body determines its appearance that may aid in sexual and social communication. Changes in a person's external appearance secondary to any dermatologic disease can deter self-esteem and social interaction. Psychosocial burden of skin disease can affect the overall disability experienced by the person. The present study attempted to find out the validity of a screening questionnaire [General Health Questionnaire 12 (GHQ-12)] to find the psychiatric morbidity in patients suffering from chronic dermatoses. The questionnaire was found to be a valid and reliable instrument to screen psychiatric morbidity in patients with chronic dermatoses attending outpatient setting. There were only 6 (30%) false-positive cases and reliability was found to be 91.4%.