Skin and Psyche

Question 1

Function of the skin?

Answer 1

1. Barrier function
2. Thermoregulation
3. Immune defence
4. Metabolism & detoxification
5. Communication
6. Sensory functions

Question 2

The skins role in communication?

Answer 2

The skin has many functions, but an important function is being able to display a healthy skin as an important part of interacting with others.

Question 3

Why is severe acne vulagaris associated with unemployment?

Answer 3

1. Employers’ prejudice (stigmatisation
   of those with severe acne)
2. Effects on feelings of self-worth – perhaps those with severe acne are less likely to apply for jobs, etc

Question 4

What is stigma?

Answer 4

The term describes the situation of an individual who is disqualified from full social acceptance.

Question 5

Stigma in skin disease?

Answer 5

Many visible abnormalities, including skin conditions, cause stigmatization, which when extreme can even lead to those stigmatized being considered by some not to be fully human.

Question 6

Describe the effects of the psyche on primary skin disease?

Answer 6

• Many skin inflammations are effected by psychological factors
• Partly this can be through simple mechanisms such as:
  1. anxiety increases scratching which aggravates many skin diseases
  2. but partly far more complex, and poorly understood, such as through various neurohumeral influences.

Question 7

Consequences of skin diseases on psychological states?

Answer 7

1. anxiety
2. low self esteem
3. social anxiety
4. reduced/no sexual contact
5. increased anxiety
6. more self-consciousness
7. depression
8. negative coping strategies
   - increased smoking and alcohol intake

Question 8

Name psychodermatoses?

Answer 8

1. Dermatitis artefacta
2. Neurotic excoriations
3. Delusions of infestation
4. Acne excoriée des jeunes filles